Siberian Elm, Hybrid elm

Ulmus pumila

Physical Characteristics

Ulmus pumila is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 12 m (39ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, E. Siberia, Turkestan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Inner bark Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[105, 177, 183]. Used as a potherb[218]. Inner bark - cooked. It can be dried and made into noodles[105, 177, 183]. The dried inner bark can also be ground into a powder and then used as a thickener in soups or added to cereal flours when making bread etc. Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 177]. Used when immature, it can be made into a sauce and a wine[183]. The fruit is about 10mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Antibilious Antidote Demulcent Diuretic Febrifuge Lenitive Lithontripic Poultice The leaves are diuretic and febrifuge[218]. They are used as a pot herb and are then said to be antibilious, antidote and lithontripic[218]. The stem bark is demulcent, diuretic, febrifuge and lenitive[218]. It is mixed with oil and vinegar then used as a poultice on abscesses, mastitis and swellings[218].

Known Hazards

None known