Description
Ulmus parvifolia ‘Drake’, commonly known as the Chinese Elm, is a highly valued ornamental tree celebrated for its graceful form and distinctive exfoliating bark that peels away to reveal a mottled pattern of gray, green, orange, and brown hues. Native to China, Korea, and Japan, this cultivar has been widely adapted to various landscapes across North America due to its exceptional resistance to Dutch elm disease, a devastating affliction that affects many elm species. ‘Drake’ exhibits a dense, vase-shaped canopy with small, glossy, serrated leaves that turn attractive shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall, providing multi-season interest. Its tolerance to urban conditions, drought, and poor soils makes it an excellent choice for street tree plantings, parks, and home gardens. The Chinese Elm’s long history of cultivation and versatility has earned it recognition among landscapers and arborists as a durable and aesthetically pleasing species suitable for diverse environments.