Ulmus laevis | Tree of the year 2024

The Fluttering Elm or Ulmus laevis is a magnificent sight due to its ultimately imposing large and upright, broad crown. The species is native to large parts of Europe and is mostly found near rivers such as the Volga and the Danube. In autumn, the species turns yellow, making it perhaps even more beautiful. The flowers hang in clusters from the twigs and flutter in all directions at the slightest breath of wind, hence the name: Fladderiep. The species copes well with periodic high water levels and therefore appears in lists of climate trees. Since this species has been voted ‘Tree of the Year 2024’ after a vote among more than 300 growers, traders and professionals, a short article on its origin. A species that can also be found on our assortment list from our own nursery. This year, LTO Nederland chose the theme ‘Nostalgic Trees’, focusing on the aesthetic value of the nominated trees.

Origin: central and eastern Europe. The species is native to the Netherlands.
Use: The species prefers sunny to slightly shaded places on moist, moderately nutrient-rich to nutrient-rich soils. Can grow up to 32 meters high. The species is clearly distinguished from the other two native elm species Ulmus glabra and Ulmus minor. The leaves are inverted eirond, have unbranched side veins and are softly hairy at the bottom. The leaf base is very crooked. Flowering time: March-April before the leaf appears. The winged nuts have a densely hairy edge. The stemiep occurs along streams, in deciduous forests, in hedges, along hollow roads and in the open field. The species is not tolerant of drought and reasonably tolerant of water stagnation. Although this species appears to be very sensitive to Dutch elm disease in artificial contamination, it is not affected in practice. Very presumably because the elm spider beetles prefer other elm species over the fluttering elm.