Winged Elm (Ulmus alata) is a resilient native tree known for its distinctive corky “wings” along the branches and its graceful, upright form. Reaching 40 to 70 feet tall and spreading 30 to 40 feet wide, it thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained sand or loam soils. Blooming in early spring with inconspicuous flowers, it offers quiet seasonal interest while serving as a larval host for the Question Mark butterfly. Its strong wood and flexible structure make it notably resistant to hurricane winds, and its textured bark adds visual intrigue to naturalized landscapes, woodland edges, or restoration plantings.
- Tree
- Size: 40-70 ft. tall by 30-40 ft. wide
- Blooms early spring
- Exposure: Full sun, part shade
- Moisture: Well-drained
- Soil: Sand, loam
- Hurricane wind resistant
- Larval host for Question Mark butterfly
- Interesting bark
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