The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Valley Forge American elm

Family: Ulmaceae (elm family)

Distribution: Species native to c. and e. North America

Hardiness: USDA Zone 3

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: This large-growing, deciduous tree was selected as seedlings in Delaware, Ohio by the USDA for resistance to Dutch elm disease. Described as growing upright with wide-spreading branches. Growth rate is 12' tall and 5' wide after only five years; ultimate size 60' tall and wide. American elm was a favorite shade tree before Dutch elm disease practically wiped it out. Resistant to air pollution.