Cedar Elm PDF

Cedar elms are tough, Texas-native shade trees that are a great fit for Dallas landscapes. They are known to grow to about 40–70 feet tall with a rounded, oval canopy about the same width. Its small, rough leaves turn golden in the fall, adding seasonal interest. Once established, they can handle the Texas heat, drought, and alkaline soils remarkably well. If you want a reliable, low-fuss shade tree for your yard, a cedar elm is a solid pick.

This is a large tree; for best results, plant in full sun and give it room to mature. It establishes readily and adapts to parkways, front yards, and other urban sites, but plan on occasional pruning to raise low limbs for sidewalk/driveway clearance.

Pros

• Great shade and attractive fall color
• Adaptable to urban settings (tolerates compacted soils and intermittent wet/dry cycles)

Considerations

• Deciduous—expect leaf drop (and small seed “samaras”) each fall
• Needs room to grow and occasional pruning to raise low limbs
• Like all elms, cedar elms are susceptible to Dutch elm disease.