Life History and Disturbance Response of Ulmus crassifolia (Cedar Elm)
Family: Ulmaceae
Guild: opportunistic, fast-growing, intermediate tolerant
Functional Lifeform: medium to large sized deciduous tree
Ecological Role: This rapid growing elm is usually found in limestone soils along water courses, but can grow on limestone hills (where it is usually scrubby and small). It has the smallest leaves of any native elm and is one of two that flower in the fall.
Lifespan, yrs (typical/max): 100/?
Shade Tolerance: intermediate
Height, m: up to 30m
Canopy Tree: yes
Pollination Agent: wind
Seeding, yrs (begins/optimal/declines): 15/40/?
Mast Frequency, yrs: seeds or possibly sprouts
Flowering Dates: late summer often and in mid fall
Flowers/Cones Damaged by Frost: yes
Seedfall Begins: early fall and late fall if second flowering occurs
Seed Banking: up to 1yr
Cold Stratification Required: yes
Seed Type/Dispersal Distance/Agent: winged/up to 200m/wind, water, birds
Season of Germination: spring
Seedling Rooting System: shallow
Sprouting: unknown, but is assumed it is similar to other elms
Establishment Seedbed Preferences:
Substrate: mineral
Light: variable
Moisture: moist required
Temperature: neutral
Disturbance Response:
Fire: Small stems are easily damaged by fire but will sprout from the root collar.
Weather:
Air Pollution:
Exotics: