Life History and Disturbance Response of Ulmus thomasii (Rock Elm)
Family: Ulmaceae
Guild: pioneer, spring-dispersed, moist-site, intermediate shade tolerance
Functional Lifeform: medium to large deciduous tree
Ecological Role: This tree grows best on moist, loamy soils, but can also be found on dry uplands such as rocky ridges and limestone hills. It is always associated with other hardwoods and its abundant seed crop is a favorite food for many animals and birds.
Lifespan, yrs (typical/max): 125/300
Shade Tolerance: intermediate
Height, m: 25-35m
Canopy Tree: yes
Pollination Agent: wind
Seeding, yrs (begins/optimal/declines): 20/40/125
Mast Frequency, yrs: 3-4yrs
New Cohorts Source: seeds or sprouts
Flowering Dates: spring
Flowers/Cones Damaged by Frost: yes
Seedfall Begins: late spring
Seed Banking: seasonal, up to 1 yr
Cold Stratification Required: no
Seed Type/Dispersal Distance/Agent: winged/up to 200m/wind, birds, animals
Season of Germination: spring
Seedling Rooting System: unknown
Sprouting: stump sprout and root suckers although not common in the wild
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: