Usually seen at 40 to 50 feet high, winged elm can reach 90 feet in height in the woods with a 30 to 40-foot spread. Canopy form is variable from pyramidal to vase or rounded. A North American native, this fast-growing deciduous tree is quickly identified by the corky, winglike projections which appear on opposite sides of twigs and branches. Branches rise through the crown, then bend in a sweeping manner toward the ground. The size of the wings varies greatly from one tree to another. Because it is found growing in wet sites as well as dry, rocky ridges it is a very adaptable tree for urban planting.
Pronunciation: UL-mus uh-LAY-tuh
Common name(s): Winged elm
Fact sheet: Winged elm
Planted in Nassau County Extension Demonstration Garden