Drake Elm

UsesShade Tree
Common NamesChinese Elm, Drake Elm
Scientific NameUlmus parvifolia
Cold HardinessYes
Light NeedsFull to Partial Sun
FlowerGreen, Inconspicuous
Fall Color Yellow
Water NeedsModerate
LeavesLighter Green
Evergreen/DecidiuousSemi Evergreen, short period without leaves
Mature Height 30 to 40 feet
Growth RateFast
drake elm
Middle-Aged Drake Elm – Enlarge

Originally from China, Japan, North Korea and Vietnam, the lacey and feathery, soft look of the Drake elm’s crown and its slender trunk adds a gentle addition to the Orlando homes that welcome its presence. Known to be fast-growing, they can reach up to 60′ to become a favorite shade tree. They do require a good bit of lawn for their root spread and you need to make certain the soil drains well. You won’t want to put it in damp or wet locations and if you can find the elm a sunny spot to inhabit it will grow happily.

One of those trees that can fall victim to the Dutch elm disease, horticulturists tell us that problem can be avoided by cutting them back “hard” every 5 – 10 years. The Drake has small, glossy, green leaves that hang on into late autumn or early winter. It will bloom in early autumn, putting out small flowers, and eventually its winged fruit to follow.

Notice the mottled reddish bark on the trunk by clicking the photograph and zooming in.

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Buy at an Orlando Nursery near you

  • Pokey’s Lake Jem Citrus Nursery

    3259 N. Orange Blossom Trail Zellwood, FL 32798

    Only Fruit Trees, no shipping
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