About Ulmus ‘Frontier’ (Frontier Elm)

Ulmus ‘Frontier’ is a hardy, upright deciduous shade tree with a moderate growth rate. It typically reaches 30–40 feet tall by 15–30 feet wide at maturity, making it well suited for residential and urban landscapes. The leaves are slightly serrated, glossy bright green in spring and summer, and provide a dense, attractive canopy. Small, inconspicuous green flowers may appear during the warmer months. Unlike many elm varieties, Ulmus ‘Frontier’ produces little to no fruit, eliminating seed pods called samaras. In autumn, the foliage turns striking shades of red and purple before dropping in late fall to early winter.

Origins And Landscape Adaptability

A hybrid developed by the U.S. National Arboretum in the 1970s before being released as a cultivar in the 1990’s. Its parentage is a cross between Ulma minor and Ulmus parvifolia, sharing the same glossy green leaves that turn purplish-red in the fall season. It is highly resistant to Dutch Elm disease, a deadly disease affecting trees in the United States.

Planting And Care Instructions

Ulmus ‘Frontier’ is best planted in full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Plant using well draining soil and water regularly after planting to help it establish well to its new location. Well adapted to California landscapes offering moderate drought resistance once rooted. Ulmus Frontier has good resistance to common diseases such as leaf beetles and elm yellows and is hardy against urban conditions such as pollution. A general fertilizer can be used in the spring to help encourage more growth.

Landscape Design Ideas

Frontier Elm can be used as a shade tree in both commercial and residential landscape designs. Plant low growing, shade-loving plants below to add interest and to suppress weed growth. A thoughtful choice for large parking lot medians, street medians and public parks.