Winged Elm
Ulmus alatafam. Ulmaceae
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Pl. 09DE — Ulmus alata
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IOverview
Overview
Winged Elm (Ulmus alata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Florida and Georgia, with additional populations in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. Known for its ornamental value and as an edible source of leaves, this tree also has documented medicinal uses. One distinctive feature is the presence of wing-like projections along its twigs, which give it its common name. Winged Elm thrives in moist soil, prefers light to partial shade, and grows best in soil pH ranging from 5 to 7. It can reach a height of 15 meters and is hardy in zones 6-9.
Quick answers
What is Winged Elm?
Winged Elm (Ulmus alata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Florida and Georgia, with additional populations in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Winged Elm and Water Lotus
skintincture
Traditionally used for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Winged Elm thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 15 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The leaves are edible but the plant is primarily grown for its ornamental value.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Winged Elm for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Winged Elm tree to observe and care for in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Winged Elm sapling, well-draining soil, and a watering can or hose.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Winged Elm in spring after the last frost or early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH between 5 and 7. Amend as needed to improve drainage and fertility.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young sapling into a prepared garden bed or large container with well-draining soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests and address them promptly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches. Leaves can be harvested for culinary use if needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The winged elm's leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for a mild, slightly bitter flavor. SKIP
Other uses:Weaving materialLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 18 native· 1 introduced
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Virginia, Arkansas, Florida, Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas
introduced:Maryland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Ulmaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Ulmaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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