Indian elm (Holoptelea integrifolia)

Indian elm, Holoptelea integrifolia, is a tall deciduous tree of dry forests and village edges. Its flat, papery, winged fruits drift down in late winter. In many Indian cities its spring pollen is a major cause of seasonal hay fever, which is the most practical thing to know about it.

Botanical name: Holoptelea integrifolia (Roxb.) Planch.
Family: Ulmaceae
Tamil: Aavi
Hindi: Chilbil
Parts used: Timber
Habit: Winged dry elm; peepal is Ficus
Last updated: 2026-10-25

How to recognise Indian elm

The leaves are oval with smooth edges, which separates it from most elms, whose leaves are toothed. Crushed leaves and bark give off an unpleasant smell.

It flowers in late winter, often before new leaves appear, with small greenish-purple clusters on bare twigs.

The fruit is a round, flat, papery disc with the seed in the middle — a samara, like a coin with a bump.

Peepal, Ficus religiosa, has heart-shaped leaves with a long drip tip and milky sap, and figs instead of winged fruit.

Traditional use of Indian elm

Timber

The pale wood is used for carts, packing cases, matchwood and rough furniture.

Indian forestry

Folk practice

The bark appears in regional folk lists for skin complaints. Those uses have not been tested clinically.

Regional Indian folk practice

Modern notes on Indian elm

Allergists in Delhi, Bengaluru and elsewhere identify Holoptelea pollen as one of the most important tree allergens in India, peaking around February and March.

Laboratory studies report various compounds in the bark, but there is no clinical evidence for medicinal use.

Indian elm safety

If you get sneezing, itchy eyes or wheezing every late winter, Holoptelea pollen may be a cause. Talk to a doctor about allergy testing.

Ecology and sourcing

It grows in dry deciduous forest and is common along roads, field edges and in villages across India.

The light winged fruits blow far, so it springs up readily on open ground.

Related plants

Questions about Indian elm

Is Indian elm peepal?

No. Peepal is Ficus religiosa, with heart-shaped leaves and figs.

Does Indian elm cause allergies?

Yes. Its pollen is a common cause of late-winter hay fever in India.

What is the Hindi name of Holoptelea integrifolia?

Chilbil.

Sources

Educational page about a plant. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell. Traditional use is historical. If you need care, ask a licensed clinician. Questions: hello@meevamed.com.