American Elm 'Princeton' (Ulmus americana 'Princeton'): Disease-Resistant Classic

American elm 'Princeton' is a cultivar selected for high resistance to Dutch elm disease, restoring the classic vase-shaped elm to American streets and landscapes.

Botanical Profile

Description and Features

This fast-growing deciduous tree reaches 60–80 feet with the iconic vase-shaped, arching canopy. Leaves are rough, doubly serrate. Bark is gray, furrowed. It exhibits high tolerance to Dutch elm disease.

Cultivation and Uses

'Princeton' prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil but adapts widely. It is a top choice for street trees, shade trees, and restoration of historic elm plantings. Monitor for other pests like elm leaf beetle.

History

Selected in 1922 at Princeton Nurseries; proven resistant over decades.