Ulmus parvifolia 'Reflection' - Evergreen Trees Direct

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm - Evergreen Trees Direct

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Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

$280.00

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Size: 40cm/45L

40cm/45L 50cm/75L 100L 200L 300L

Current Stock Height Guides

40cm/45L: 1.7m – 2.0m Approx.
100L: Enquire within for height guide information.
200L: 2.6m – 4.5m Approx.
300L: Enquire within for height guide information.

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you mustconfirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 8m to 12m (approx.)

Mature Width: Up to 10m

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is expected to grow 60cm to 80cm per year (moderate to fast) (approx.).

Root Ball Dimensions

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

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Shipping

Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the pallet space your order occupies in the truck and your delivery location.

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Contact

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Email: sales@evergreentrees.com.au

Phone: (03) 7042 3318

About Your New Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Ulmus parvifolia 'Reflection', sold as the Reflecting Elm, is a deciduous shade tree with an even, rounded crown. The small serrated leaves carry a glossy sheen that catches the light, colouring soft yellow before they drop, and the trunk develops the flaking, mottled bark typical of the Chinese Elms.

Mature size is up to 10 metres tall and up to 10 metres wide, put on at roughly 60 to 80 centimetres a year. Plant it in full sun to light shade in well drained soil. It copes with frost, dry spells, compacted soil, pollution and light coastal exposure once established.

The symmetry of the crown makes it a dependable avenue and streetscape tree, spaced about 3 metres for an even line or 3 to 4 metres where each tree is meant to stand alone. In a garden it shades the house through summer and lets the winter sun back in.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Reflecting Elm

What is a Reflecting Elm?

Ulmus parvifolia 'Reflection' is a selected form of Chinese Elm chosen for its tidy, evenly rounded crown. The small serrated leaves have a glossy surface that reflects the light, which is where the name comes from. It is fully deciduous, so it gives dense shade in summer and opens up in winter.

How big does a Reflecting Elm grow?

Up to 10 metres tall and up to 10 metres wide at maturity, making it a rounded, medium sized shade tree. That is noticeably more compact than the straight species, which is part of the appeal on suburban blocks and narrow streets where a 15 metre tree would be too much.

How fast does a Reflecting Elm grow?

Roughly 60 to 80 centimetres a year, so moderate to fast. Growth is strongest through the warm months where there is adequate water. Planting an advanced size and keeping the root zone mulched and free of weeds will have an avenue or a screen reading as established within a few seasons.

Is a Reflecting Elm frost tolerant?

Yes. It handles frost comfortably once established and grows well through cool temperate districts including Victoria, Tasmania, the Southern Highlands, Canberra and the tablelands. Being deciduous, it is dormant and leafless when the hardest frosts arrive. Young trees still appreciate some shelter through their first winter on very cold sites.

Where does a Reflecting Elm grow best in Australia?

It performs across cool and warm temperate Australia, from Melbourne and Adelaide through Sydney, Canberra and the inland regional centres, and it copes with light coastal exposure. Compacted urban soils and vehicle pollution are no obstacle. In tropical northern areas the winter chill is too slight for reliable colour and leaf drop.

How far apart should I plant Reflecting Elms for an avenue?

About 3 metres apart gives a uniform avenue where the crowns knit together into a continuous line. Where each tree is meant to stand on its own, use 3 to 4 metres so the full rounded canopy can develop. Set the row back at least 4 metres from buildings and paving.

How do I care for a Reflecting Elm?

Water it deeply once or twice a week through the first two summers, then taper off. Spread a wide ring of mulch around the base each spring. Prune only when dormant in late winter, taking out crossing branches and lifting the lower limbs for clearance. It rarely needs more than that.

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

Enriched Planting Mix is a certified organic blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent, bagged in 30L. It is built to be dug through existing garden soil at planting time rather than used on its own, and the gypsum is what sets it apart from a plain compost.

Gypsum helps break up heavy clay so water and roots can move through it, while the compost and manure return organic matter and nutrient to tired ground. The coarse bark holds structure and keeps air around the root zone, and the wetting agent keeps moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering.

Use it when planting trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and exotic garden plants, particularly into clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and 7 centimetres deeper, then mix roughly one third planting mix through the excavated soil. Spread 7 centimetres of that improved soil in the base before setting the plant in.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Enriched Planting Mix

What is Enriched Planting Mix made from?

It is a blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent. Each part has a job. The compost and manure supply organic matter and nutrient, the gypsum works on clay structure, the bark keeps air around the roots and the wetting agent holds moisture in the soil.

What plants is it suitable for?

It suits exotic garden plants, including roses, ornamental and deciduous trees, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials, and it earns its keep most on heavy clay sites. It is a planting mix rather than a potting mix, so its job is improving soil at planting time. Phosphorus sensitive natives are the one clear exception.

Is it safe for natives?

No, not for the phosphorus sensitive ones. The composted animal manure in this blend lifts phosphorus well above what Proteaceae such as Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea and Protea will tolerate, and the result can be leaf burn, dieback and plant death. Use the Native Potting Mix for those species, or plant them into unimproved local soil.

Is it certified organic?

Yes. It is a certified organic product with no chemical additives, which is why the manure and compost in it are fully composted rather than raw. That makes it sound around fruit trees and vegetable beds, and it means you are adding genuine organic matter to your soil rather than a synthetic conditioner.

How much do I need?

Work on roughly one third planting mix to two thirds of the soil you dug out of the hole. For a shrub out of a 200 millimetre pot that is only a few litres. An advanced tree going into a large hole will take considerably more. Judge the quantity by the volume of the hole rather than the size of the plant.

Can I use it in pots?

It is not a potting mix and should not be used on its own in a container. The blend is designed to be diluted through garden soil, and used straight in a pot it holds too much water and settles badly. For containers, reach for a premium potting mix, or the native mix if you are potting natives.

Does it need to be watered in?

Yes. Water the plant well several hours before you plant it, then water thoroughly again once the hole is backfilled and the soil firmed down. That first deep watering settles the improved soil around the root ball and drives out air pockets. Keep the water up over the first few months while the roots establish.

View full details

Type: Garden Supplies

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

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Uses in my Garden

Avenue Planting
Street Tree
Shade Tree
Council or Civic Landscapes

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm works in an:

Formal Garden – structured, symmetrical design with clipped shapes.
Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
Woodland Garden – layered, naturalistic design under dappled light.
Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Is Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm Evergreen or Deciduous?

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is an Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months) Tree

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 8m to 12m (approx.)

Mature Width: Up to 10m

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is expected to grow 60cm to 80cm per year (moderate to fast) (approx.).

Growth Rate of Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is expected to grow 60cm to 80cm per year (moderate to fast) (approx.).

They are considered to have a:

Medium Growth Rate

Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Is Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm frost tolerant?

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

Does Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm Flower?

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ does not produce ornamental flowers. Its small, inconspicuous blooms appear in late summer to autumn and are followed by papery winged seeds. This cultivar is grown for its elegant form, fine branching structure and glossy green foliage rather than its flowering display.

Does Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm flower?

Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

Summer

Flower Type:

Not Applicable

Flower Colour:

Not Applicable

Is Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm an Australian Native Tree?

No

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is Native to East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan, where Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm) grows naturally in forests and along riverbanks.

What is the Wildlife Value of Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm ?

Its dense branching and broad canopy provide excellent shelter and foraging habitat for small birds, while the foliage supports beneficial insects that help strengthen local biodiversity. In mature landscapes, it contributes meaningfully to a healthy garden ecosystem by offering both habitat structure and seasonal resources.

How much Sunlight does Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm need?

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm will thrive best in:

Full Sun
Part Shade

Preferred Soil?

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam soils with an acidic to neutral pH. It will also tolerate sandy soils if enriched with organic matter to improve moisture retention. Avoid heavy clay or poorly drained sites unless significantly improved, as these conditions can reduce vigour and compromise root health. Keep the soil evenly moist during establishment, then gradually reduce watering as the tree matures and develops its natural drought resilience.

Is Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm Drought Tolerant?

Is Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm Drought tolerant?

As a young tree it requires regular deep watering to establish fully. Once established, Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ shows good drought tolerance, performing reliably through warm, dry periods when planted in well-drained soil. It maintains strong foliage colour and canopy density with only minimal supplementary watering during extended heat.

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How To Plant Your Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Site: Choose a well-drained position in full sun to part shade with room for the canopy to develop.

Soil preparation: Enrich the planting area with quality compost and aged manure for a strong establishment phase.

Hole: Dig twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.

Planting: Position level with the surrounding soil, backfill gently, firm in, then water deeply to settle the roots.

Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Feature tree: 3 to 4 metres apart to allow the full canopy and form to develop.

Avenue planting: 3 metres apart for a uniform soft-textured avenue.

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm is expected to grow 60cm to 80cm per year (moderate to fast) (approx.).

Medium Growth Rate

Long Term Care For Your Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm

Watering: Water deeply twice weekly through the first 12 months. Once established, this is drought tolerant and only needs a deep soak during extended dry periods.

Mulching: Apply a 5 to 7 centimetre layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it 5 centimetres clear of the trunk.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Light tip prune in late winter to maintain shape, and remove lower branches as the tree grows to develop a clean feature trunk.

Fertilising: Apply a slow-release general-purpose fertiliser in early spring and again in autumn for steady growth and consistent foliage colour.

Pest and disease: Hardy against most pests and diseases. Occasional inspection in warm humid conditions is all that's needed.

Planting Your Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reflection’ – Reflecting Elm in Different Soil

Ulmus parvifolia performs best in free-draining loam or sandy loam with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Adaptable to a wide range of soils when drainage is sharp.

Sandy soil: Free-draining and ideal. Mulch lightly to moderate surface temperature.

Clay soil: Improve drainage with gypsum and coarse organic compost before planting.

Loam: The preferred soil for steady root development and consistent growth.

pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline preferred. Avoid waterlogging at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is ‘Reflection’ different from regular Chinese Elm?
A: ‘Reflection’ offers stronger structure, a denser canopy, and more uniform growth habit, making it superior for formal street plantings or screening.

Q: Is ‘Reflection’ suitable for smaller landscapes?
A: Yes. Its controlled growth habit and rounded form make it ideal for both large-scale and smaller-scale planting zones.

Q: Can this cultivar handle tough urban or exposed sites?
A: Yes. It tolerates poor soils, drought, wind, pollution, and light coastal conditions with minimal maintenance.