Allergen of the Month—Wych Elm

Abstract

There are over 25 species of elm in the genus Ulmus, with six native to the North American continent east of the Rocky Mountains.1 Ulmus glabra, Wych or scotch elm, is native to Europe and western Asia, but has been planted throughout the northeastern United States as a pleasing ornamental tree.2-4 Elms are well valued for shade and ornamental appearance, and commercially for their heavy, exceedingly hard wood. Since the wood is water-resistant, elm is used in building boats, carts, coffins, and farm buildings; the inner bark has been used for mats and rope-making.