They look pretty bizarre, the fruits of the elm. You have probably seen the small, round, paper-like leaves before. They contain a seed that not only serves to propagate the deciduous tree, but can also be used by you. In addition, the fruits of the elm represent a useful way of distinguishing the tree from other genera and, on closer inspection, even of being able to distinguish individual elm species from one another. The following article will provide you with comprehensive information on everything you need to know about the fruits of the elm.

The fruit of the elm is a nut fruit

Appearance and shape of the elm fruits

  • Type of fruit: nut fruit
  • surrounded by an ovate, membranous wing called the samara
  • about 1.6-2.3 cm tall (field elm has significantly smaller fruits)
  • arranged in clusters in many species

Fruit ripening and special features of the elm fruits

The elm produces its fruit in the months from May to June. it also develops a seed, which appears in the middle or on the edge of the fruit, depending on the type of elm (see below). However, this seed is not released immediately as is common for other tree species. It stays in the pericarp for a long time.

Seed dispersal and germination

The reason for the long preservation of the seed is its very short germination time. They are spread by the wind but become ineffective after only a few days. However, if you land in a favorable location, they start within two to three weeks. This is also the reason why elms are mainly propagated by grafting.

Different storage of seeds

Did you know that if you look closely, it is possible to identify the three elm species native to Europe based on the position of the seed on the fruit?

  • in the case of the wych elm, the seed lies in the middle of the wing
  • at the field elm it lies outside
  • the white elm, on the other hand, has fine hairs on the edge of the wing

Are the fruits of the elm edible?

Elms are not poisonous, so you can eat all of the parts, including the fruit. In traditional Chinese medicine, the small nuts have been of great importance for many years. Do you often not feel up to a challenge, do you suffer from stress and fear of failure? Then the remedy Elm Bach Flower No. 11 will help you to alleviate your worries naturally.

Category:

Trees