Lacebark Elm Tree

Our lacebark elm trees are Ulmus parvifolia, the Chinese elm known for bark that flakes into patches of tan, gray, olive and cinnamon. It forms a rounded, vase-shaped crown and resists Dutch elm disease. Bare-root trees ship in 6-12 inch, 12-18 inch, 1-2 foot and 2-3 foot sizes, in packs of 100, 500 and 1000, with a 100-tree minimum order.

Lacebark Elm Size, Zones and Sun

Plan on a medium shade tree, 40 to 50 feet tall and about as broad, in zones 5 to 9, planted in full sun. What surprises buyers is how little it asks of the ground. Heavy clay, a sandy strip or a spot that stays wet for weeks will all grow it, and it does not mind alkaline or acidic soil. Drought, roadside salt and exhaust-heavy city air do not set it back much either.

Lacebark Elm Bark, Leaves and Fall Color

The bark exfoliates in mottled patches, showing lighter layers underneath in shades of brown, tan, gray, olive and cinnamon. Fall color runs gold, purple or red, and in mild winters leaves may hang on late. Small reddish-green flowers open in fall and go mostly unnoticed.

Lacebark Elm for Streets and Small Lots

Lacebark elm resists Japanese beetles, elm leaf beetles and Dutch elm disease, which is much of why landscapers plant it. Our ideas for using lacebark elm on small urban lots show where it fits.

Good to Know About Lacebark Elm

The wood is on the weak side, and branches can break under wind, snow or ice, so keep the tree a few steps from buildings. It also self-seeds, so check beneath it each spring. Our shade trees for patios and driveways compare it with other choices.

Lacebark Elm Sizes, Packs and Shipping

Lacebark elm trees ship bare-root in November, in 6-12 inch, 12-18 inch, 1-2 foot and 2-3 foot sizes and packs of 100, 500 and 1000. Volume pricing available. Browse more trees in our wholesale collection.