(c) linlon1, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

elm family

(c) oculae, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

olive family

VS

Elm (Elm) trees have simple leaves with saw-toothed edges and a distinctly uneven (asymmetrical) leaf base where one side attaches lower than the other. Their branches often form a vase-shaped crown, especially in mature trees. Seeds are flat, papery discs called samaras. Ash (Ash) trees have compound leaves made up of 5–11 leaflets arranged along a central stalk. Twigs and branches are typically arranged opposite each other, a useful identification feature. Seeds are single-winged samaras that hang in clusters. Quick field tip: If the tree has a single leaf with an uneven base, it's likely an elm. If it has a leaf made of multiple leaflets and opposite branching, it's an ash.