Accolade Elm Pros and Cons

The Accolade Elm (Ulmus 'Morton'), is a deciduous tree renowned for its graceful beauty and distinctive vase-shaped growth pattern. Accolade Elms are prized for their rapid growth, making them a desirable alternative for individuals seeking to plant a shade tree that grows quickly.

The Accolade elm is a strong, fast-growing hybrid with the iconic vase-shaped appearance of the American elm. The American elm was once regarded to be the ideal large tree for cities, with long arched branches that formed allées, providing shade for hot urban areas. 

The majority of the elms that lined American streets were decimated by Dutch elm disease, and it was believed that the American elm could never recover. Accolade elm may be the solution with its graceful vase-shaped habit, rapid growth rate, and dark green glossy leaves. Accolade offers superior drought tolerance together with excellent disease and insect resistance. 

Pros

Does not demand constant attention

Accolade Elm's low maintenance requirements are among its most important benefits. Once it has grown, the tree is largely self-sustaining and does not require ongoing care. Usually, regular watering and occasional pruning are enough to maintain the tree's health.

Aesthetically pleasing with fine glossy green leaves

With its gracefully arching branches and glossy green leaves, Accolade Elm emits elegance. It makes a perfect focal point or shade tree because it lends a sense of refinement to any landscape.

Resistant to Dutch elm disease and elm leaf beetle

Accolade Elm is renowned for its resilience to the two most prevalent diseases that attack elm trees, Dutch elm disease and elm leaf beetle. It is thus a wise choice for individuals seeking a tree that is immune to these problems

Quick Growth

Accolade Elm is a great option for individuals who want their landscaping projects to be completed quickly. It grows quickly and can give your garden or property plenty of shade and aesthetic appeal in a few years.

Provides Shade

Accolade Elm provides outstanding shade covering with its broad canopy and dense foliage. In the sweltering summer, it's the ideal tree for furnishing a cool and pleasant outdoor area.

Cons

Possibility of phloem necrosis

Accolade elm is resistant to Dutch elm disease to a high degree. However, it is prone to phloem necrosis, a viral disease that destroys the tree's food-conducting tissue and typically causes the bark to loosen, the tree to wilt, defoliate, and eventually die. 

Possibility of Wetwood

It is also vulnerable to wetwood, a bacterial disease that causes wilting and dieback in plants. Other possible conditions include different rots, cankers, and leaf spots.

Insect Infestation Risk

Accolade Elm may become infested by insects including aphids and elm leaf beetles, which could harm the tree's leaves and general health. In order to avoid serious infestations, routine observation and fast response are required.

Vulnerable to Winter Injury

Accolade Elm can experience winter damage during challenging winters, especially in areas with exceptionally low temperatures. The health and look of the tree might be impacted by frost cracks and other wintertime issues.