Rock Elm
Ulmus thomasiifam. Ulmaceae
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Pl. 0123 — Ulmus thomasii
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IOverview
Overview
Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States, found in states such as Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Missouri. Known for its edible leaves and documented medicinal uses, this tree thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade. It prefers soil types ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a pH between 4.5 and 7.2. Reaching heights of up to 30 meters, the Rock Elm is both ornamental and useful for its edible and medicinal properties.
Quick answers
What is Rock Elm?
Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States, found in states such as Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Missouri. Known for its edible leaves and documented medicinal uses, this tree thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade.
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.
Rock Elm & Lady's Bedstraw
skintincture
Traditionally used for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Rock Elm thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions and grows up to 30 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil pH ranges between 4.5 and 7.2. The leaves are edible but note that this information pertains to their use as a food source, not medicinal purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Habit
Tree
Mature size
30.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–7.2
For first-time growers
How to grow Rock Elm for the first time
7steps
Start with planting a young Rock Elm tree for a beginner-friendly project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Rock Elm sapling, garden gloves, and a shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil drains well. Amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 15 liters (4 gallons) in size.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young sapling into your prepared garden bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, as Rock Elms prefer well-drained soil.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches for shape and health. Leaves can be harvested for culinary use, but this is not a primary focus.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii) are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads when young and tender. Skip
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 20 native
Broader regions
native:Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Ontario, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Arkansas
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
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