Chinese elm
Ulmus parvifolia
Family: Ulmaceae
What it is like
An elm tree. It grows 15 m tall. It is spreading and loses many of its leaves during the year. The branches tend to hang down. The trunk has smooth bark which flakes off showing orange brown patches. It has small leaves. The leaves are narrowly oval and 6 cm long by 4 cm wide. They are unequal at the base. The leaves are pointed and have sharp teeth. They are glossy dark green above with hairs underneath. They turn yellow, red, or purple in autumn. The flowers are very small and red. They are in clusters in the axils of leaves. The fruit is a small seed with wings. It is 8 mm long.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It is native to E. Asia and grows in rocky places. In China it grows below 800 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 5-10. Arboretum Tasmania.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Australia, China, East Africa, Eswatini, India, Japan, Korea, Mozambique, North America, North Korea, SE Asia, South Africa, Southern Africa, Swaziland, Taiwan, Tasmania, USA, Vietnam, Zimbabwe
How it is used for food
The young leafy shoots are eaten.
Edible parts
Fruit, inner bark, leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Lang Yu