The elm also has a variety of species in this country. Numerous varieties look very similar, but still have special features that distinguish their genus. Could you tell a field elm from a wych elm straight away? No? Then you should definitely find out about the different characteristics of both types of elm in this article so that you know exactly what you are talking about.
What is the difference between field elm and wych elm?
The main difference between field elm and wych elm is the height of growth, leaf shape, leaf structure and the position of the seed in the flower. The field elm has elliptical leaves and a long petiole, while the wych elm has three-pointed leaves and a short petiole.
Characteristics of Field Elm
- maximum height: 30 m
- spherical crown
- Taproots
- monoecious
- elliptical, serrated leaves in an alternate arrangement
Characteristics of Wych Elm
- maximum height: 40 m
- dense crown. that reaches far down
- cracked, thick bark with numerous branches
- native to mountains
Leaves and flowers as a sure distinguishing feature
First of all, the field elm and the wych elm differ in their height. Here the field elm lags behind the maximum growth of the wych elm by a few meters. However, it is difficult to estimate the size of a single tree with the naked eye. If you want to be sure to distinguish the wych elm from the field elm, you should take a look at the shape of the flowers and leaves. While the leaves of the field elm only have a single tip, those of the wych elm usually have three points. The structure of the surface also provides information about which tree it is. The wych elm has a rough, hairy upper side of the leaves, but the underside of the leaves is soft. It is different with the field elm. Here the top of the leaf is smooth and shiny. You can also recognize the field elm by its long petiole, which is only very short in the wych elm. The flower is also a reliable distinguishing feature. In the parchment-like wing you can see the seed inside. In the wych elm, the seed is placed in the middle. The field elm carries its seeds on the edge of the wing.
Interesting facts
The field elm and the wych elm are closely related to each other. However, if you take it very seriously, the field elm is a subspecies of the wych elm that arises from it.
