Ulmus parvifolia ‘Feather Cloud’

Ulmus ‘Feather Cloud’ is an ornamental tree belonging to the elm family (Ulmaceae). It is a unique cultivar of the Chinese elm with beautiful variegated coloring. It is a leading tree in our nursery’s exclusive collection, combining exceptional hardiness with a refined and spectacular appearance.

The cultivar was first discovered in Australia, where it was patented for its unique visual properties. Like its family members, Ulmus ‘Feather Cloud’ excels in extremely high resistance to Dutch Elm Disease, which affected elm species in the past, making it a safe choice that guarantees stability and health for decades.

The hallmark of Ulmus ‘Feather Cloud’ is its unique two-tone foliage. The leaves are small and serrated, adorned with cream-white margins on a deep green background that changes with the seasons. In spring, during the flush of new growth, the tree is covered in a shimmering greenish-white blanket. This display provides bright, fresh tones that are often lacking in the Israeli garden. The variegated appearance remains prominent in summer despite the strong solar radiation in Israel. In autumn, before the leaves drop, an impressive contrast is created as the leaves change color to dark red while the margins remain bright white. This red-and-white display is one of the most special sights you can get from an ornamental tree.

Beyond impressive foliage, as it matures, ‘Feather Cloud’ develops a sculptural trunk with exfoliating mosaic bark in shades of gray, orange, and brown. This appearance provides aesthetic and design interest even during the winter months when the tree stands bare in leaf fall.

Architectural suitability and landscape uses:
Ulmus ‘Feather Cloud’ is a hardy tree that easily adapts to a variety of soils and climate conditions in Israel. It is resistant to air pollution, strong winds, and frost. Its canopy structure is broad and umbrella-like, providing quality shade without aggressively taking over the space, making it suitable for planting near paved plazas, paths, and lawns.

Its moderate root system allows it to serve as a focal point and centerpiece in private gardens as well, while its high durability makes it an excellent street and avenue tree. Planting in groups or avenues enhances the shimmering white effect and creates a unique look.

Tip: To enhance the impressive display of ‘Feather Cloud’, it is recommended to plant it against a background of dark foliage (deep green or purple). The contrast will make the tree pop out and highlight its bright, shimmering appearance.

Ulmus ‘Feather Cloud’ undergoes rigorous growing processes at our nursery, along with straight trunk training and balanced canopy shaping. The tree is relatively water-wise after establishment, but regular watering in the first few years will ensure the development of a full canopy and prominent, variegated foliage.

We at Ilan Nurseries exclusively grow and market this cultivar in Israel

Others in the same family: Ulmus parvifolia ‘Reshafim’ | Ulmus glabra ‘Pendula’ | Ulmus parvifolia ‘Feather Cloud’