THE ELMS 211 



and leaves varying in size fit in to fill every little corner 

 to which sunlight comes. This "leaf mosaic" is not con- 

 fined to elms alone. It is especially noticeable on the 

 southern border of any dense wood. 



Winter offers the best opportunity for the study of 

 tree forms. Our common elm shows at least five different 

 patterns. The first is the "vase form," the commonest 

 and most beautiful. This is best realized by old trees 

 which have had plenty of room. In it the branches spread 

 gradually upward at first but at a considerable height 

 sweep boldly out forming a broad, rounded, or flattened 

 head. Second is the "plume form," in which two or 

 three main limbs rise to a great height before branching, 

 and then break into feathery spray. Trees crowded in 

 woods are lilcely to take this form. Third, the "oak tree 

 form" shows a horizontal habit of branching, and an 

 angularity of limbs usually more noticeable among oaks. 

 Fourth, the "weeping willow form," where trees have 

 short trunks, from w^hicli the branches curve rapidly 

 outward and end in long, drooping branchlets. Fifth is 

 the "feathered elm," marked by a fringe of short twigs 

 which outline the trunk and limbs. This "feathering" 

 is caused by the late development of latent buds. It may 

 occur in any of the tree types just mentioned, but it is 

 more noticeable in individuals of the plume form. 



The American elm is very familiar for it grows every- 

 where east of the Rocky ^lountains. Not to know this 

 tree is a mark of indifference and ignorance. No village 

 of any pride but plants it freely as a street tree. It is 

 hardy and cheerful, reflecting the indomitable spirit of 

 the pioneer, whom it accompanied by seed and sapling 

 from the Eastern states into the treeless territories of the 



