Winged Elm

Description:

A small- to medium-sized deciduous tree endemic to the woodlands of the southeastern and south-central United States. As its common and scientific[1] names imply, Ulmus alata is most easily recognized by the very broad, thin pair of corky wings that form along the branchlets after a couple of years. The tree generally grows to a maximum height and breadth of about 13 × 13 m. Its growth rate is often very slow, the trunk increasing in diameter by < 5mm (0.2 in) per annum.

Habitat:

The species is occasionally considered a nuisance as it readily invades old fields, forest clearings, and rangelands, proving particularly difficult to eradicate with herbicides. Ulmus alata is tolerant of a wide range of soils, and of ponding, but is the least shade-tolerant of the North American elms.

Notes:

Spotted in previously cleared/disturbed lot between industrial complex and uncultivated wetlands/drainage area.