Knowra Ulmus americana Ulmus americana Ulmus americana, the American elm, is a large deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America. Its vase-shaped crown and arching branches made it a familiar shade tree before Dutch elm disease devastated many populations.
Ulmus : Ulmus is a genus of deciduous and semideciduous trees known as elms. The American elm is one species within this genus.
Dutch elm disease : Dutch elm disease is a fungal disease of elms spread chiefly by bark beetles and, in some cases, root grafts. It has killed millions of American elms by disrupting water transport.
Street tree : A street tree is a tree planted along roads or sidewalks for shade, amenity, or environmental benefits. American elms became widely planted along streets for their high, arching canopies.
Survivor Tree : The Survivor Tree is a Callery pear that survived the September 11 attacks at the World Trade Center. It is often confused with the famous American elm at the site, which is a separate tree.
Ulmaceae : Ulmaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes elms and their close relatives. This family places the American elm among related woody plants.
Elm bark beetle : Elm bark beetles are small beetles whose feeding and breeding can spread Dutch elm disease fungi. These beetles carry the pathogen between American elm trees.
Urban forestry : Urban forestry is the planning and care of trees and forests in towns and cities. The American elm's rise and decline transformed urban tree planning.
Washington Elm : The Washington Elm was a large elm in Cambridge, Massachusetts, associated by tradition with George Washington's command of the Continental Army. Its story illustrates the American elm's place in national memory, though the historical claim is disputed.
Samara : A samara is a dry, winged fruit that disperses its seed as it falls or is carried by wind. The American elm's flat, winged fruits are samaras.
Xylem : Xylem is vascular tissue that transports water and dissolved minerals through plants. Dutch elm disease blocks water-conducting vessels in the tree.
Show all 21