Wahoo elm (Ulmus alata, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 173 (1803))

Family: Ulmaceae

Author: Michx.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 173 (1803)

Year: 1803

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ulmus

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A.

Description

The Wahoo elm, known scientifically as Ulmus alata, is an esteemed member of the Ulmaceae family. This deciduous tree is native to the central and southeastern regions of the United States, where it thrives in various habitats, from bottomland areas to upland woods.

First described in 1803 by the botanist Michaux in “Flora Boreali-Americana” (Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 173), the Wahoo elm is distinguished by its unique botanical characteristics. The tree typically features small, oblique leaves that are coarsely serrated, presenting a dark green hue above and a slightly paler underside. The bark of Ulmus alata is deeply furrowed and grayish-brown, providing a rugged texture that contrasts with the smooth, nearly winged twigs — a defining trait that contributes to its common name.

Wahoo elm flowers are inconspicuous, appearing in early spring before the leaves unfurl. These wind-pollinated flowers give way to small, winged samaras that mature in early summer, ensuring efficient seed dispersal.

In addition to its ecological value, the Wahoo elm is also appreciated for its ornamental qualities. Its moderate size and appealing shape make it a suitable choice for urban and rural landscaping. However, like many elm species, Ulmus alata is susceptible to Dutch elm disease, which has significantly impacted populations across its native range.

Despite these challenges, the Wahoo elm remains a resilient component of its native ecosystems, contributing to the biodiversity and stability of forests in the southeastern United States. Enthusiasts and conservationists continue to appreciate this tree for its hardiness and adaptability, ensuring that it remains a valued species within its native habitats.

In conclusion, the Wahoo elm, or Ulmus alata, is a remarkable tree with a storied history and crucial role in North American forests. Its distinctive characteristics and contributions to ecological stability illustrate the importance of preserving and understanding the diverse species within the Ulmaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: small-leaf elm, wahoo elm, winged elm
En: Wahoo elm, Winged elm, Small-leaf elm, Wahoo
Ar: دردار جناحي
Zh: 翼葉榆
Fa: نارون آلاتا

Synonyms

• Ulmus pumila (Walter)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Maryland (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 29, 2021 by kathy gilbert (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2021 by Raul (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2021 by Raul (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2021 by Raul (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Aug 28, 2022 by Kat L. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2019 by Luka (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 18, 2019 by Kathleen713 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2021 by Beverly LeMaster (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Nov 20, 2014 by EOL − mslevin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 21, 2014 by EOL − kedmonds (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 10, 2020 by Michelle Morris (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2002 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Apr 11, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 11, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2014 by EOL − Greg Maher (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 29, 2014 by EOL − Greg Maher (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Mar 16, 2019 by ravenssong33 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 25, 2013 by EOL − Cullen Hanks (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 28, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2014 by EOL − Greg Maher (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:302994-2)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5361878)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ulmus alata Michx.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Stem

Growth habit>: Tree

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 5.0