American Elm vs American Bladdernut - TreeTime.ca

American Elm vs American Bladdernut

Staphylea trifolia

Ulmus americana

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American Bladdernut
American Elm

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

American Elm is fast growing, tall tree with a recognizable and pleasing shape.

It's well suited for urban environments because of its non-invasive roots and ability to grow on harsh sites (quite salt tolerant). American Elm develops a wide, dense canopy that provides shade for many city streets around North America.

American Bladdernut Quick Facts

American Elm Quick Facts

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Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 4 m (12 ft)
Height: 30 m (98 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: shade, partial shade
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: very long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: bright yellow
Flowers: white
Seeds: samara
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC
Native to: SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, PE
Other Names: water elm, whilte elm