Elm-Ulmus 'Pioneer'

Think about this:

There are so many thoughts and memories that may come to mind when you look at an Elm tree. It could be the beautiful walk through the National Mall in Washington D.C. that has an elm tree canopy. Or the disease that felled so many of the trees in the last century. Or its use as a bonsai. Or the cluster in New York’s Central Park, the home of some of the world’s oldest American Elm trees.

Or you could remember the Elm tree’s role in history. The Elm tree has been noted in Greek mythology, the American Revolution (The “Liberty Tree” was an Elm.) and the French Revolution. It has been the main food source for Norwegians suffering from a famine – the seeds are 45% crude protein. And the cutting of an Elm was at the heart of an altercation between the French and the English in 1188.

Or you could marvel at its beauty. The Elm tree has been painted and photographed by some of the world’s most famous artists such as John Constable and George Inness. It has been admired for its graceful flow by rich and poor alike.

Indeed, the Elm tree has quite the legacy. They can live hundreds of years – in fact, there is a common saying “if you want to give your grandchildren a gift, plant an elm tree”.

As you stand before this tree, consider your legacy. Have you lived a life that will be a blessing for future generations? Will the foundation you have laid support your great grandchildren? And in comparison, how great is God’s love for those that love him and keep his commandments for generations. Even the long life and legacy of an Elm tree is no match for that kind of divine compassion.

Learn More:

The Elm-Ulmus 'Pioneer' was successfully developed in the 1970s by the United States Department of Agriculture to create an Elm resistant to Dutch Elm disease. The Elm can be found lining streets across America. At 50 feet tall, it boasts a 50 foot wide umbrella canopy, making it attractive for shade. Dark, shiny pointed leaves dazzle the viewer in fall when they turn yellow. The Pioneer Elm is extremely hardy and can be grown in zones 5 through 7. It is indifferent to soil types and is relatively unaffected by PH balance in soil. The Pioneer Elm makes a great, low maintenance, hardy shade tree for roadsides and large properties. Timber is useful for making ship keels, archery bows and musical instruments.