Elms are loved for their graceful, stately shape, with branches like spreading fountains, and green leaves that turn gold in fall. The American elm was the most popular tree to plant in the booming cities of the 19th century, so that by the 20th century many streets were lined with only elms and were shaded in summer by a cathedral-like ceiling of their branches.
While most species reach 30 to 70 feet in height, and 30 to 60 feet in width, the American elm species will grow 80 to 130 feet high and 60 to 120 feet wide.