Are Elm Tree Leaves Simple or Compound?

Leaf Form

• Elm trees have simple foliage. "Simple" leaves grow singly from stems or petioles with a single blade growing from the stalks. This is the most common form of leaf construction. As opposed to simple leaves, "compound" leaves are composed of several individual leaflets growing from single stems. There are also palmate leaves that get their name from their palmlike shape. Palmate leaves may be single or compound.

Leaf Description

• Elm trees have deciduous foliage that grows alternately along the shoots in double rows. The oval-shaped foliage tapers into a point at the tip. The foliage size differs slightly by variety; Chinese elm leaves are anywhere between 1 to 3 inches long and the American elm leaves are nearly 6 inches long, the longest among all elms. The edges of the foliage are saw toothed and the veins are prominent. The uneven undersides are a distinguishing characteristic of elm tree leaves.

Growth Requirements

• Plant elm trees in a variety of soil types, including wet or dry. Growth is optimal in fertile, well-drained and moist soil with a preferred pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The trees adapt well to areas of sun or partial shade and respond well to transplanting at any stage of growth. Recommended planting time is during early fall and early spring during cold temperature and rainy weather.

Planting Tips

• Elm trees, especially Chinese and American elms, have strong surface roots that can seriously damage structures, sidewalks and driveways. To avoid damage, plant the tree at least 2 feet away from streets and sidewalks, 15 feet away from homes and 30 feet away from other trees, suggests author Jeff Meyer in "The Tree Book." Stake trees with trunk diameters of less than 2 inches in order to prevent leaning. These trees also required early pruning. Remove stakes within two years.