As part of our ongoing evaluation of trees suited for urban landscapes, we regularly document performance, form, and long-term observations through our Tree Variety Spotlight page. This article highlights a recent addition to that effort—Summer Elixir® Elm (Ulmus chenmoui ‘JAB Morton’)—and explains why we believe it deserves consideration in today’s planting environments.
Finding trees that balance toughness, beauty, and appropriate scale has become increasingly important in modern urban landscapes. As planting spaces shrink and environmental pressures increase, smaller-statured trees with proven durability are in high demand. One tree we believe deserves more attention is Summer Elixir® Elm (Ulmus chenmoui ‘JAB Morton’).
At Urban Forest Nursery, this tree is especially meaningful to us—not just because of its performance, but because of its history and how it was discovered.
Why Elms Are Being Reconsidered
For decades, elms fell out of favor due to Dutch Elm Disease and their often massive mature size. Today, improved selections and alternative elm species are changing that narrative. Modern elms offer:
- Strong adaptability to urban conditions
- Excellent drought tolerance once established
- High resistance to Dutch Elm Disease
- Reliable structure and longevity
Summer Elixir elm stands out by offering these traits in a more manageable size, making it suitable for streetscapes, parking lots, campuses, and residential settings where space is limited.
A Tree with a Unique Origin Story
Summer Elixir® Elm was discovered right here at Urban Forest Nursery nearly 20 years ago. It emerged as a standout field selection from a group of Ulmus chenmoui seedlings provided by Dr. George Ware of the Morton Arboretum, who was evaluating elm species from around the world.
Out of many seedlings, this tree distinguished itself with its consistent form, attractive foliage, and overall performance—leading to its selection and eventual introduction into the nursery trade.
Why Summer Elixir Elm Works in Urban Settings
This elm offers a combination of traits that make it especially useful in challenging sites:
- Smaller mature size compared to traditional American and European elms
- Broad, rounded canopy that provides shade without overwhelming the space
- Seasonal interest, with red-tinted new growth in summer and warm fall color
- Toughness and adaptability across a wide range of soils and moisture conditions
Its moderate size—roughly 35 feet tall and 30 feet wide—allows it to fit comfortably into spaces where larger canopy trees may no longer be appropriate.
A Practical Alternative to Trees We’ve Lost
With species like ash no longer viable due to invasive pests, landscape professionals are actively seeking durable replacements that still offer shade, structure, and visual appeal. Summer Elixir elm fills that role well, offering a dependable option without the scale issues of older elm species.
Grown, Evaluated, and Recommended
At Urban Forest Nursery, we prioritize trees that have been field-tested and proven over time. Summer Elixir® Elm reflects our approach to tree selection: careful evaluation, long-term observation, and honest recommendations based on real performance.
For detailed characteristics, photos, and availability, visit our Tree Variety Spotlight on Summer Elixir® Elm, where Jim shares more in-depth observations from our nursery fields.
If you’re looking for a smaller broad-canopy tree that combines resilience, beauty, and history, Summer Elixir® Elm is certainly worth considering.
(Jim and Ann Barborinas with Summer Elixir® Elm at J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. — a tree discovered at Urban Forest Nursery and now grown and distributed to nurseries and landscapes across the region.)