The Cedar Elm, or Texas Elm, is the most common elm Tree in Texas. Most often planted for shade, the elm is called a Cedar Elm because of the rough, cedar scale-like texture of its leaves. The Cedar Elm is often mistaken for the Winged Elm in the nursery trade. To tell the difference, landscapers often rub a few of the leaves together. When rubbed back and forth, the Cedar Elm’s leaves will be rough like sandpaper, while the winged elm’s leaves will generally be smooth and slick. Cedar elms are extremely adaptable to their environment and have been known to grow as large as 70 feet tall by 60 feet wide.