A graceful, spreading shade tree with small glossy leaves and beautiful mottled, flaking bark in tones of grey, orange and cream. Tough, disease-resistant and a popular bonsai subject.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 12 m H × 10 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Chinese Elm
Botanically, Ulmus parvifolia is a moderate-growing tree in the Ulmaceae family. It reaches around 12 m tall and 10 m wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Chinese Elm
Chinese Elm suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Chinese Elm does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Chinese Elm performs well with relatively little water once established. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Chinese Elm in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Chinese Elm in the garden
Chinese Elm earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and bonsai culture.
Companion planting & design
Combine Chinese Elm with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Chinese Elm
Plant Sale lists Chinese Elm as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
