Ulmus Minor Jacqueline Hillier Dwarf Field Elm

Ulmus minor Jacqueline Hillier or Field Elm Jacqueline Hillier
A petite variety of the standard elm, Ulmus minor Jacqueline Hillier is a mid to large shrub prized for its attractive looks and exceptional resilience. Ideally suited for mixed shrub borders and hedgerows, this decorative shrub can be grown in containers as well.

With a neat, dense habit, when left unpruned, this variety grows in a shrubby shape. However, in case you are growing it in a bonsai-style garden, or just prefer the dwarf tree look, you can trim it to create a single stem tree. The foliage of this cultivar is one of its most treasured features, with its elm-like, finely toothed leaves that are only 2 to 3 centimetres in size. The leaves are dark green from spring to autumn, when they turn to warm orange hues.

Adaptable and tolerant as its larger Elm relatives, Ulmus minor Jacqueline Hillier will thrive in any soil, as long as it is well drained. For best results, plant it in a sunny location, either sheltered or exposed and rich, fertile soil. Even though it is drought tolerant, this cultivar appreciates consistent soil moisture. Unlike other elm cultivars, Jacqueline Hillier variety is not affected by the dreaded Dutch Elm disease. A naturally occurring hybrid, Ulmus minor Jacqueline Hillier was discovered growing in a garden, in Birmingham, England. It is fully hardy in the United Kingdom, and will not be bothered even if the temperatures drop to 20 degrees below zero. This cultivar is not affected by cold or harsh winds, and, as such, is ideally suited for coastal gardens, where it can be grown as a windbreak hedge.

Long-lived and with a slow growth rate, this striking shrub can achieve a maximum height of 3 metres, with a width of 2 metres. Compared to standard elm trees, which can grow to be 10 times larger, this variety can be considered miniature. Growing this shrub in your garden is an excellent alternative that offers all the charm and appeal of elm cultivars without the imposing size and the need for space.

Highly-decorative, this dwarf elm variety is also very versatile and lends itself well to various uses in the garden. The architectural value and dense, textured foliage make it a perfect candidate for hedgerows and mixed shrub borders. When trained to grow as a miniature tree, it can be a splendid addition to bonsai gardens or even a specimen plant. Planted in a large container, it can be used to add interest to a patio or rooftop balcony.