Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) - Slippery Elm Trees

Slippery Elm is similar in many ways to American Elm, but differs in its branching habit (it branches higher on the trunk, with fewer main branches), the texture of its slightly larger leaves (they are sandpapery on both sides), and the color of its interior heartwood (reddish-brown). While its geographic distribution is almost the same as American Elm (eastern and central United States), Slippery Elm is more commonly found in the slightly drier soils of uplands, although it may be found growing side by side in mesic sites with American Elm. Slippery Elm is also subject to attack by Dutch Elm disease, but not to the extent of American Elm.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
2045 Morse Road, Building D
Columbus OH 43229-6693

Phone: 614-265-6879