Ulmus Dodoens Elm Tree

Ulmus Dodoens, also known as Dodoens Elm, is a deciduous broadleaf elm tree with good resistance to Dutch Elm Disease. Together with Ulmus Lobel, Ulmus Dodoens was introduced in 1973 by Hans Haybroek, the Dutch botanist renowned for his research into the elm genus. Today, Ulmus Dodoens lines many of the canal streets (grachten) in Amsterdam where it is an ideal canal side tree.

Ulmus Dodoens is a fast growing large elm with a conical crown. It has silvery smooth grey bark that fissures into attractive patterns as it grows. Around March and April this disease resistant elm produces small understated green flowers that early pollinators adore. Following flowers small ovate laves, measuring 6-10cms in length, burst through with dark green on top and a light green beneath to give a shimmering effect in the winds. In early summer flowers turn into small fruits.

In autumn the glossy green leaves turn shades of buttery yellow and ochre before falling with the cold winter weather. The trunk of Ulmus Dodoens creates an architectural framework in a bare garden. It forms branches quickly and develops a wide reaching crown.

Height and Width of Ulmus Dodoens
This is a large elm tree that will grow to a mature height of 20 metres and spread over 10-15 metres.

How Hardy Is Ulmus Dodoens
This is a hardy elm that will withstand subzero temperatures of the UK, salty coastal conditions, and polluted urban areas.

How To Use Ulmus Dodoens
This large tree needs space to grow, so it suits avenues and large gardens. It is a good choice for coastal areas as it can withstand salt and harsh winds once established.  

Ulmus Dodoens has been put to excellent use as a canal side tree throughout the Netherlands. Its transparent (not dense) crown filters the summer sunlight so that it is most pleasant to sit underneath one of the many canal side benches.

How To Care For Ulmus Dodoens
When it is planted in a free draining fertile soil Ulmus Dodoens will thrive, but it will grow in most gardens situation including heavy clay soils. It isn’t worried about pH levels and will also tolerate temporary flooding once established.

This disease resistant elm will require staking in the early days and water during dry periods so it can put down strong, dependable roots. A good, thick layer of organic mulch in spring will help it stay healthy and produce vigorous growth. There is no need to prune this elm, although you can restrict growth by cutting the leader stem.