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Ulmus laciniata

Ulmus laciniata
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Ulmus laciniata (Ulmus laciniata) — botanical photograph
Pl. B54B — Ulmus laciniata
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I

Overview

Ulmus laciniata, commonly known as the Amur elm, is a deciduous tree native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, and Japan. This tree thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soil types, making it adaptable but particularly suited for areas with partial sun or shade. Known for its edible inner bark and leaves, which can be consumed, Ulmus laciniata is also valued for its ornamental qualities. One distinctive feature of this species is its ability to grow up to 10 meters in height, while another notable characteristic is its range across various climates from hardiness zone 4 to 8.

Quick answers

What is Ulmus laciniata?

Ulmus laciniata, commonly known as the Amur elm, is a deciduous tree native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, and Japan. This tree thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soil types, making it adaptable but particularly suited for areas with partial sun or shade.

What is Ulmus laciniata used for?

Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.

Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Ulmus laciniata
Jump to full evidence →
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
II

Benefits & evidence

2 claims · traditional-use context
Traditional-use context
These notes are presented as ethnobotanical context. No cited clinical references are catalogued for this plant yet.
  • Ulmus species have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support, with preparations made from inner bark and leaves. A decoction of elm bark may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.

    The mechanism is not fully characterised but involves bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and tannins that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

    ▲ ModerateImmune support →
  • Ulmus species are traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support digestion, with preparations made from the inner bark and leaves. A decoction of elm bark may help soothe digestive discomfort.

    The mechanism is not fully characterised but involves bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and tannins that have astringent properties.

    ▲ ModerateDigestion →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Ulmus laciniata thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. The tree can reach a height of 10 meters. For propagation, inner bark and leaves are edible but not typically used as propagation methods; seeds or cuttings may be more appropriate.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Ulmus laciniata for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Ulmus laciniata in a beginner-friendly environment.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Ulmus laciniata sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late autumn when the ground is not frozen.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for your local conditions.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant a young sapling from a nursery pot into your garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune the tree annually in late winter to remove dead branches and promote healthy growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Inner barkLeaves
Edible uses: The inner bark and leaves of Ulmus laciniata are edible. The inner bark can be harvested and prepared by peeling it from the tree, then drying or cooking it before consumption. Leaves may also be eaten fresh or dried, though specific preparation methods are not detailed in the given data.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 11 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Ulmus laciniata (Ulmus laciniata) — botanical photograph
Ulmus laciniata (Ulmus laciniata)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

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