for its introduction amongst us; arguing, in support of 
this opinion, that it is not found in our aboriginal 
forests, and that it does not propagate its species by 
seeds, as is the case with indigenous trees, but by suck¬ 
ers : others, however, contend, that of the seven species 
which constitute this genus, two, namely, ulmus cam- 
pestris, our common elm, and ulmus montana, the wych 
elm, or wych hazel, are certainly natives. 
The latter, characterised by a much larger leaf, and 
less compactness of growth, flourishes both in England 
and Scotland, not only in the lowlands, but in the most 
northern parts of the island; indeed it is considered as 
true and characteristic an appendage of the wild, moun¬ 
tainous scenery of the sister-kingdom, as the birch, the 
rowan, or even the pine itself. As such, it has obtained 
the enviable distinction of being introduced in the 
beautiful opening stanzas to “ the Lady of the Lake: ” 
" Harp of the north ! that mouldering long hast hung 
On the witch elm that shades St. Fillan’s spring.” 
The timber of the elm is hard-grained, and ranks 
high in point of utility: it is peculiarly fitted for works 
connected with water, as it bears, without injury, the 
extremes of drought and moisture. Its leaves, in sea¬ 
sons of scarcity, yield fodder for cattle, and were used 
