Ulmus 'Den Haag'

The hybrid cultivar elm 'Den Haag' is a Dutch development derived from a crossing of the Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila and Ulmus × hollandica 'Belgica' in 1936 by S. G. A. Doorenbos (1891-1980), Director of Public Parks in The Hague. .

Description

The tree is distinguished by its pendent branches, and its foliage, which is creamy-white on emergence but turning lime-green and ultimately deep green by midsummer.

Pests and diseases

Although reputed to be moderately resistant to Dutch elm disease, drought, and frost, the tree has brittle branches, and is vulnerable to Coral-spot Fungus Nectria cinnabarina

Cultivation

The tree is still raised and planted in the Netherlands. The specimen shown growing at Southsea Common, Portsmouth, is the larger of only two known in the UK. 'Den Haag' is not known to have been introduced to North America, but has been planted in New Zealand.

Etymology

The tree is named for the city of Den Haag (known as The Hague in English).

Synonymy

• Ulmus 'Ieplaan': old (original?) name for Ulmus 'Den Haag'.
• Ulmus pumila 'Den Haag': various authorities.

Accessions

Europe

• Brighton & Hove City Council, UK, NCCPG elm collection Large tree in Preston Park.
• Southsea Common, Portsmouth, UK. British Champion tree, near entrance to skate park; 19 m high, 74 cm d.b.h. in 2007.

Nurseries

Europe

• De Reebock , Zwalm, Belgium. Australasia
• Big Trees , Nelson, New Zealand

References