Todd Chinese Elm - Ulmus parvifolia ‘Todd’

Todd Chinese Elm - Ulmus parvifolia 'Todd'

One of the most architecturally reliable deciduous trees available in advanced stock, the Todd Chinese Elm delivers strong upright form, a dense cooling canopy, and year-round structural presence. At scale, it commands any avenue, forecourt, or formal landscape with quiet authority.

Why Todd Chinese Elm

Upright architectural form: A naturally balanced, columnar habit that requires minimal intervention to maintain structure.
Dense seasonal canopy: Delivers substantial shade through warmer months, then opens the canopy in winter to allow light through.
Mottled bark character: Develops exfoliating, multi-toned bark with age, a detail that distinguishes mature specimens from lesser alternatives.
Warm autumn foliage: Foliage transitions through amber and gold tones before leaf drop, adding seasonal depth to the landscape.
Proven durability: Adaptable across a wide range of soils and conditions; long-lived and low-maintenance at establishment.

Ideal Applications

Avenue and driveway planting: Uniform habit makes it the preferred choice for formal rows along estate entries and long driveways.
Feature specimen planting: Commands attention as a standalone focal point in open landscapes and formal settings.
Shade canopy: Provides meaningful cooling cover over entertaining areas, courtyards, and pedestrian zones without overpowering surrounding plantings.
Commercial and civic landscapes: Well suited to streetscapes, corporate grounds, and high-traffic public spaces where structure and longevity are non-negotiable.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (feature/avenue): 6–10m
Planting Season: Autumn to early spring
Soil & Drainage: Adaptable to a wide range of soils including clay, loam and sandy soils; prefers well-drained but tolerates moderately poor drainage
Establishment Care: Water deeply once or twice per week for the first two years until established. Apply a layer of mulch 75–100mm deep around the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Details

Height: 6–10m
Width: 5–8m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Semi-evergreen
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Native to: China, Japan, Korea
Flower Colour: Insignificant