Fauna
Plant

Chinese Elm

Ulmus parvifolia

Also known as Lacebark Elm

Chinese elms are renowned for their distinctive lacebark pattern, which sheds in irregular puzzle-like plates to reveal patches of orange, green, and brown beneath. Unlike most elms that bloom in early spring, this species produces subtle wind-pollinated flowers and winged samaras in late summer and autumn. Highly resistant to Dutch elm disease, it serves as a resilient shade tree in both natural forests and dense urban streetscapes.

TreeDeciduousOrnamental
Chinese Elm reference1 / 7
(c) Reid Hardin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Reid Hardin · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
Predators
  • Elm Leaf Beetle
  • Japanese Beetle
  • Aphids
ThreatsElm leaf beetle infestations, root rot in poorly drained soils, and habitat conversion
HabitatsTemperate forests, floodplains, valleys, and urban parks
Life span100–150 years
Classification
  1. OrderRosales
  2. FamilyUlmaceae
  3. GenusUlmus
  4. SpeciesUlmus parvifolia
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Bark Identification: Look for the mottled green, orange, and grey bark flaking off in smooth puzzle pieces.
  • Check Autumn Foliage: Observe how leaves remain glossy green late into autumn before turning yellow or purple.
  • Urban Viewing: Look for planted specimens in city parks and street margins where urban tough trees thrive.
Related species
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?

Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.

Checking your Fauna account…