Ulmus villosa facts for kids

The Cherry-bark Elm (scientific name: Ulmus villosa) is a special type of elm tree. It's known for its unique bark, which looks a bit like the bark of a cherry tree! This tree grows in parts of Asia and can live for a very long time. It's one of the more interesting elm trees you can find in that region.

What is the Cherry-bark Elm?

The Cherry-bark Elm, or Ulmus villosa, is a type of tree from the elm family. It gets its common name from its bark, which can peel and look similar to the bark of some cherry trees. This tree is native to Asia and is known for being quite strong and long-lived. It's a distinctive member of the elm family found in that part of the world.

Where Does the Cherry-bark Elm Live?

The Cherry-bark Elm naturally grows in several countries across Asia. You can find it in places like India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. It often prefers to grow in mountainous areas or hilly regions, where it can be part of forests or woodlands. These trees are well-adapted to different environments, from valleys to higher elevations.

What Does the Cherry-bark Elm Look Like?

The Cherry-bark Elm is a medium to large-sized tree. It can grow quite tall, reaching heights that make it stand out in a forest.

Its Special Bark

One of the most noticeable things about this tree is its bark. It's usually a reddish-brown color and can peel off in flakes or strips, much like the bark of some cherry trees. This unique feature helps people identify it easily.

Leaves and Flowers

The leaves of the Cherry-bark Elm are typically oval-shaped with pointed tips. They have serrated (toothed) edges, which means they look a bit like tiny saws along the sides. Like many elm trees, it produces small flowers that aren't very showy. These flowers later turn into seeds.

Seeds of the Elm

The seeds of the Cherry-bark Elm are flat and round, surrounded by a papery wing. These winged seeds are called samarae. They are designed to be carried by the wind, helping the tree spread its seeds to new places. This is a common way for many trees to reproduce.

How Does the Cherry-bark Elm Reproduce?

Like most trees, the Cherry-bark Elm reproduces using its seeds. In the spring, the tree produces small flowers. These flowers are pollinated, often by the wind, and then develop into the winged seeds (samarae). Once the seeds are mature, they are released from the tree and carried away by the wind. If a seed lands in a good spot with enough sunlight, water, and soil, it can sprout and grow into a new Cherry-bark Elm tree.

Why is the Cherry-bark Elm Important?

The Cherry-bark Elm plays an important role in its natural environment. As a tree, it provides habitat and food for various animals, including insects and birds. Its roots help to hold the soil in place, which can prevent erosion, especially on hillsides. Like all trees, it also helps to produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, which is good for the air we breathe. People sometimes use its wood for various purposes, but its main importance is often its role in the ecosystem.

Images for kids

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  Bark

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  Leaves

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  Samarae

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  Tree at Stanmer Park Arboretum, Brighton