It is an invader of forest openings, old fields, and rangelands. No information is currently available on the sprouting and rooting habits of winged elm. This species develops a short bole with branches ascending into a fairly open, round-topped crown. It has a lacy, or somewhat drooping habit. One special characteristic is the corky, persistent wings or projections often found on the branches.
Winged elm grows rapidly in the open.
Under forest conditions its growth rate is usually considered poor in relation to its associates. No information available. Reaction to Competition Of all species of elms native to the United States, winged elm is perhaps the least tolerant of shade. Normally, winged elm is not associated with standing water except in intermittent pools and shallow sheets of water after heavy rains. This is not because the species is generally more susceptible to pathogens than other native hardwoods.