Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei Dwarf Chinese Elm

Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei is a deciduous elm tree with attractive peeling bark and leathery shiny leaves. It only reaches three metres in height, so it’s a superb tree for compact small gardens and urban areas.

Ulmus Parvifolia or Chinese Elm is an elegant variety of elm tree that’s native to Asia. Because it has grey and tan peeling bark it’s also called the Lacebark Tree. Chinese elm was first introduced to the UK in 1794 as a collection specimen for Gilbert Slater of Essex.

Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei, sometimes just Seiju, is a cultivar of Chinese Elm. It’s a dwarf version to maximum 3M tall which retains the splendid peeling bark and attractive rounded foliage crown.

One of the best aspects of this compact ornamental tree is its foliage. It is a deciduous tree, but its small and shiny dark-green leathery leaves are long-lasting only turning shades of red and yellow in late autumn to early winter. In late summer, inconspicuous red-green flowers attract pollinators and mature to small winged seeds.

Fully resistant to Dutch elm disease this is an ideal specimen tree for compact gardens and sunny flower borders.

Height and Spread of Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei
Dwarf Chinese Elm is named for its short stature. It reaches approximately three metres in height and spread.

How Hardy Is Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei
This compact ornamental tree is hardy in the UK and resistant to Dutch Elm disease.

How To Use Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei
If you are looking for an attractive, small specimen tree then Dwarf Chinese Elm fits the bill. It suits small gardens and urban spaces where its long-lasting foliage and attractive peeling bark keeps the seasonal interest going. In autumn its foliage has strong red and yellow shades and its small flowers attract pollinators in late summer.

This is an ornamental tree that won’t outgrow its welcome or disturb foundations. It brings height and colour for very little in return.

How To Care For Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei
Ulmus Parvifolia Sagei is easy to grow and once established needs very little attention.
Choose a well-drained, moist spot in full sun or partial shade. Soil pH is not a concern as this dwarf Chinese elm will grow in the majority of well-drained conditions. Water it well until you see new growth because underwatering is the top killer of new trees.
A thick layer of well-rotted organic mulch in spring will trap moisture and keep the tree healthy during its growing season. Pruning isn’t required.