The naturally very variable Japanese elm is one of the key species in the fight against Dutch elm disease (Ophiostoma ulmi), which has destroyed a large part of the elm populations of central and western Europe, as well as those of North America. Species from Asia seem to have the best resistance.
The Japanese elm can grow in the wild to 30 metres, with a broad crown, but there are also shrubby forms. The leaves are 8-12 cm, and the branches of some provenances have corky wings which make them attractive even in winter.
Mustila’s Japanese elms have grown since the 1990s from seed obtained from Canada. They have grown slowly and are literally being left in the shade by the other elm species on the banks of the pool at the foot of Atsalearinne (Azalea Slope).