- Mature height
- 8m to 12m (approx.)
- Mature width
- Up to 10m
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.