Disclaimer: Please note that not all plants and trees are permitted in all residential areas. Homeowners are responsible for consulting their Homeowners Association (HOA) rules to ensure compliance before planting.
The Winged Elm, native to Florida, is a fast-growing deciduous tree that reaches 45 to 70 feet in height and 30 to 40 feet in width. The tree's canopy can grow round, vase-like or pyramidal in shape, and the unique cork-like ridges rise through the crown, then bend in a sweeping manner toward the ground. These corky projections give the branches a distinctive "winged" appearance, especially noticeable on younger twigs.
In fall, the simple dark green leaves turn yellow before dropping. Reddish flowers appear in early spring, emerging in clusters, bell-shaped and not showy. Brown fruit is produced, providing food for songbirds. The elm also attracts the Question Mark butterfly.
Winged Elm grows best in full sun or partial shade. It thrives in a variety of wet to well-drained soil environments and is known for being resistant to hurricane wind and drought tolerant. Pruning is required to maintain a strong structure. The Winged Elm is very adaptable for urban planting. It makes an excellent specimen tree due to its unique branching structure and winged appearance. Older trees provide a great source of shade.