The fruits of the elm tree look pretty bizarre. You've probably seen the small, round, papery 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, upon closer inspection, even being able to differentiate between individual elm species. The following article will provide you with comprehensive information on everything you need to know about the fruits of the elm.
What is an elm fruit?
The fruits of the elm are small, round, papery nuts surrounded by a membranous wing (samara). They are about 1.6-2.3 cm tall and arranged in clusters. Elm fruits ripen from May to June and contain an edible seed.
Appearance and shape of elm fruits
- Type of fruit: Nut fruit
- surrounded by an ovoid, membranous wing, called a samara
- about 1.6-2.3 cm tall (field elm has significantly smaller fruits)
- arranged in clumps in many species
Fruit ripeness and special features of elm fruits
The elm produces its fruits 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 usual for other tree species. It remains in the pericarp for a long time.
Spreading and germination of seeds
The reason for the long preservation of the seeds is their very short germination capacity. They are spread by the wind but become ineffective after just a few days. However, if you land in a convenient location, they will begin within two to three weeks. This is also the reason why elms are mainly propagated through grafting.
Different storage of seeds
Did you know that if you look closely, you can identify the three elm species native to Europe based on the position of the seed on the fruit?
- In the wych elm, the seed is in the middle of the wing
- It is outside the field elm
- The white elm, on the other hand, has fine hairs on the edge of the wing
Are the fruits of the elm edible?
Elm trees are not poisonous, so you can eat all parts including the fruit. Traditional Chinese medicine has attributed great importance to the small nuts for many years. Do you often feel unable to cope with a challenge or suffer from stress and fear of failure? Then the Elm Bach Flower No. 11 remedy will help you to alleviate your worries in a natural way.
