What are Dutch Elm trees?

Despite the name "Dutch Elm Disease," there is no specific tree species called "Dutch Elm." The disease affects various species of elm trees (Ulmus species) and gets its name from the Dutch scientists who first studied it.

Elm Tree Species

Elm trees are deciduous trees in the genus Ulmus. Several species are commonly affected by Dutch Elm Disease:

American Elm (Ulmus americana)

Native to eastern North America

Can grow 60-80 feet tall with a distinctive vase-shaped canopy

Once the most popular street tree in America

Highly susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease

European Elm (Ulmus glabra, Ulmus minor)

Native to Europe

Various species including Scots Elm and Field Elm

Also highly susceptible to the disease

Asian Elms

Several species including Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)

Some Asian species show natural resistance to Dutch Elm Disease

For detailed information about disease-resistant elm varieties, see Are There Trees Resistant To Dutch Elm Disease? and What Cultivars Are Resistant to Dutch Elm Disease?

Characteristics of Elm Trees

Leaves: Oval-shaped with serrated edges and asymmetrical bases Bark: Deeply furrowed on mature trees Size: Generally large trees, often 50-100+ feet tall Growth: Fast-growing with wide-spreading canopies Habitat: Adaptable to various soil conditions

Historical Importance

Elm trees were widely planted in urban landscaping because they:

Formed beautiful canopies over streets

Grew quickly and provided excellent shade

Were relatively hardy and adaptable

Created the classic "cathedral" effect when planted in rows

Why "Dutch" Elm Disease?

The disease earned its name because:

Dutch plant pathologists were the first to scientifically study and describe it in the 1920s

The Netherlands experienced early and severe outbreaks

Dutch researchers made key discoveries about the disease's cause and spread

The term persisted even though the disease affects elm trees worldwide, not just those in the Netherlands. Learn more about Where Did Dutch Elm Disease Come From?

Related Information:

Disease identification: What Are the Symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease?

Disease appearance: How Does Dutch Elm Disease Look Like?

Geographic spread: What Is The Range of Dutch Elm Disease?

Treatment options: Can Dutch Elm Disease Be Treated?