A slow growing tree rarely exceeding 10 m in height, U. lamellosa is often multi-stemmed, its upright branches forming a rounded crown, but occasionally forms a single, slender trunk < 20 cm d.b.h. Considered closely related to the Large-fruited Elm U. macrocarpa, it is distinguishable from that species by its mottled, flaking bark and smaller leaves.
A slow-growing tree rarely reaching heights of more than 10 meters, U. lamellosa typically has multiple stems forming a rounded crown, but occasionally develops a single, slender trunk less than 20 cm in diameter. It is closely related to the Large-fruited Elm (U. macrocarpa), but can be distinguished by its mottled, flaking bark and smaller leaves.