American Elm
Ulmus americana
Genus: Ulmus · Family: Ulmaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Hardwood
Native Range
North America
Avg. Dried Weight
35 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
830 lbf
Decay Resistance
Non-Durable
Typical Color
Light Brown
Stability
Medium
Outdoor Suitability
Poor
Workability
Moderate
Availability
Common in U.S.
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Not Evaluated
Did You Know?
- •American Elm is harder than 27% of the 137 species in our database.
Janka Hardness Scale
Soft
Overview
Professional Summary
American Elm (Ulmus americana) was once the most iconic street tree in North America before Dutch elm disease devastated populations. Its interlocked grain gives it exceptional resistance to splitting, making it historically prized for wagon wheel hubs, boat keels, and chair seats.
In Plain English
American Elm was once everywhere — the classic arching street tree of small-town America. Dutch elm disease killed billions of trees, but the wood is still occasionally available. Its interlocked grain makes it nearly impossible to split, which was perfect for wagon wheels and chair seats.
Appearance
Technical Properties
Sources, Conditions & Safety
No documented references are attached to this profile yet. Its recorded values should not be treated as source-verified.
Wood dust & sensitivity
Species-specific safety information has not been documented here. Absence of a warning does not mean the wood is safe or non-allergenic.
Use dust extraction and appropriate protective equipment; consult occupational-safety guidance. This is not medical advice or food-contact approval.
Durability & Performance
Workability
Common Uses
Historically used for wagon wheel hubs, chair seats, boat keels, and any application requiring split-resistance. Today used for furniture, veneer, and decorative items.
Sustainability & Trade
Listings are reference information, not proof of legal sourcing or certification. Verify current trade rules and supplier documentation before buying; absence of a note does not mean unrestricted trade.
Not durable outdoors. Interlocked grain causes tearout. Dutch elm disease has severely limited supply of large logs.
Native Distribution
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Species with similar characteristics and uses
Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar light brown color that are easily confused with American Elm. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.
- • Harder (Janka 1,300 lbf)
- • Heavier (45 lb/ft³)
- • Texture: Fine to medium
- No recorded property differences yet
- • Harder (Janka 2,335 lbf)
- • Heavier (55 lb/ft³)
- • Decay: Durable
- • Texture: Medium
- • Softer (Janka 490 lbf)
- • Lighter (27 lb/ft³)
