Ulmus pumila
Ulmus pumila · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ulmus pumila, commonly known as the Siberian elm, is a resilient deciduous tree native to various regions across Asia and Eastern Europe. This species is highly valued for its ability to thrive in diverse environmental conditions, including poor soils and extreme temperatures. Beyond its ornamental appeal, the tree is frequently studied for its diverse chemical profile and biological activities. Researchers and herbalists often utilize the bark and other parts of the plant to create specialized extracts for various applications. These concentrated preparations serve as the primary focus for those exploring the plant's potential therapeutic properties.
- Synonyms
- Ulmus Campestris Var. Parvifolia-Pendula · Ulmus Pinnatoramosa · 14 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Ulmus pumila is a versatile tree known by a variety of regional and linguistic names across the globe. It is most frequently recognized by its common English names, the Manchurian elm and the Siberian elm. In different cultural contexts, it is also referred to as the Siberian elm (EN) or the Sibirische Ulme in German-speaking regions. Furthermore, the plant is identified by the specific name bisulnamu in certain botanical records. These diverse designations highlight the widespread presence and international recognition of this resilient species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ulmus pumila is a taxonomically complex species that is frequently identified through various botanical synonyms. Scientific literature often refers to this plant as Ulmus campestris var. parvifolia or its pendulous variation, Ulmus campestris var. parvifolia-pendula. Additionally, the tree is sometimes classified under the names Ulmus campestris var. pumila and Ulmus humilis depending on the specific regional study. Some historical records may even link it to Ulmus manshurica, reflecting the intricate nature of its classification. Understanding these diverse naming conventions is essential for accurate identification in both horticultural and botanical contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ulmus pumila belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a fundamental branch of the living world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the flowering plants. It further falls into the order Rosales, which connects it to a diverse group of related botanical species. As a member of the family Ulmaceae, it shares distinct structural characteristics common to its relatives. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its membership in the genus Ulmus, distinguishing it within its taxonomic lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Ulmus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ulmus pumila exhibits a broad distribution throughout the Asia-temperate regions, spanning a vast and diverse geographic range. Its presence is notably established across the Caucasus and the North Caucasus, where it adapts to unique local climates. The species further extends its reach into Central Asia, maintaining significant populations within Kazakhstan. This distribution continues through the rugged landscapes of Kirgizstan and Tadzhikistan, showcasing its ecological versatility. Finally, the plant's range reaches into Turkmenistan, completing its widespread presence across these interconnected territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ulmus pumila is a versatile species characterized by its distinct growth form as a tree. As a self-supporting plant, it maintains a sturdy structure that allows it to stand independently in various landscapes. Depending on its environment, the height of this tree can range significantly, starting from a minimum of only 1 m. While it can reach a maximum height of 25 m, many specimens stabilize at a more modest scale. However, well-established individuals often achieve a substantial stature with a minimum height of 21 m.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Ulmus pumila serves several distinct roles based on recent research and traditional medicinal studies. When used as a marinade for sous-vide cooked chicken breasts, this extract effectively improves various quality characteristics, including flavor and sensory acceptability. Additionally, the plant helps enhance storage stability by reducing the concentration of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances during cold storage. Beyond food science, Ulmus pumila is identified as slippery elm, a plant utilized in traditional medicine to treat cold and flu symptoms. It functions specifically as an expectorant and an immunostimulant to provide relief from these respiratory ailments.
Preparations
Ulmus pumila is prepared as extracts to investigate its influence on the quality traits and storage stability of sous-vide cooked chicken breasts. In this study, these specific extracts were used to marinate chicken breasts for one hour prior to the cooking process. The application of the Ulmus pumila extract resulted in distinct color changes, specifically exhibiting lower lightness and higher yellowness on the surface. Beyond visual characteristics, the use of these extracts enhanced flavor profiles and reduced the intensity of off-flavors in the meat. Furthermore, the high flavonoid content in the Ulmus pumila extracts contributed to a reduction in thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances during cold storage.