Beyond holding an invasive status in some places, the other main downside to the lacebark elm tree is that it is a somewhat messy tree. In spring, these trees release a lot of pollen that travels via the wind. Later in the season, lacebark elm trees drop copious amounts of winged samaras, the fruits that carry this plant's seeds. At times, the exfoliating bark of this tree may also add to the mess — parts of the bark may flake off and fall to the ground as the trunk expands.