Ulmaceae

Ulmaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes the elms (genus Ulmus), and the zelkovas (genus Zelkova). The family is primarily distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species extending into the Southern Hemisphere in Indonesia and the Americas.

Description[edit | edit source]

Members of the Ulmaceae family are deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs. They are characterized by alternate, simple leaves with pinnate venation and serrated margins. The flowers are small, appearing before the leaves in most species, and are usually wind-pollinated. The fruit is a samara in most genera.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The Ulmaceae family is classified in the order Rosales, which also includes the rose family (Rosaceae) and the hemp family (Cannabaceae). The family is divided into about 6 genera and approximately 45 species. The largest genera are Ulmus (the elms) and Zelkova.

Genera[edit | edit source]

The following genera are included in the Ulmaceae family:

Ulmus – elms
Zelkova – zelkovas
Celtis – hackberries
Hemiptelea – elm-leaved spirea
Holoptelea – Indian elm
Trema – trema

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Ulmaceae species are found in a wide range of habitats, from temperate to tropical regions. They are primarily distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species extending into the Southern Hemisphere in Indonesia and the Americas.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Many species in the Ulmaceae family are used for timber, and the wood is often used for furniture, flooring, and firewood. Some species are also grown as ornamental trees for their attractive foliage and form.

References[edit | edit source]

Ulmaceae Resources
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