WINGED ELM

We love, love, love this tree.  It is truly one of the most unique trees in Florida.  When fully foliated, it is a large canopied, weeping tree that will beautify any setting.  When defoliated, you get to clearly see the winged effect on all the limbs and even the trunk.  The winged effect is almost eerie because of its uniqueness.  If you want something no one else has, this it it.

Winged Elm easily adapts to full sun or partial shade, growing quickly in any soil. This versatile tree is ideal for parking lot islands, streets, or as a yard shade tree. Regular pruning is essential, starting early and continuing until about age 30, to eliminate double and multiple trunks. This task is easier for trees that naturally form a central leader and a pyramidal shape. Trees with a vase shape and multiple leaders from one spot on the trunk are more challenging to prune correctly. Select branches that form a wide angle with the trunk, removing those with narrow crotches. Aim to create a central trunk with major lateral limbs spaced along it.

Winged Elm (U. alata) is a large tree, reaching up to 100 feet, native to upland wooded areas. Named for the distinctive corky wings on its branches and trunk, it remains attractive even after leaf-fall. Naturally found in upland sites, Winged Elms are drought-tolerant and adapt well to most landscapes without stress. They are also resistant to Dutch elm disease. Currently underused in developed landscapes, this tree’s beauty and adaptability offer great potential for enhancing urban and suburban environments. Its resilience in varied conditions makes it a reliable choice for planting in areas prone to harsh weather or limited resources.

The Winged Elm’s striking appearance, especially with its unique corky wings, provides year-round visual interest even when the branches are bare. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Winged Elms contribute positively to local ecosystems. They offer habitat and food sources for various wildlife, including birds and insects. Their dense foliage provides ample shade that can help mitigate urban heat and improve air quality by filtering pollutants.

For landscaping professionals and homeowners alike, the Winged Elm is an excellent option for creating sustainable green spaces that require minimal maintenance once established. By incorporating this adaptable species into landscape designs, communities can enjoy both functional benefits—such as erosion control and windbreaks—and the natural beauty these trees provide throughout the seasons. As awareness of its advantages grows, there is potential for increased use of Winged Elms in public spaces such as parks, campuses, and gardens where their durability and elegance can be fully appreciated.