Elm trees

 

In the town of Ulverstone in northern Tasmania, Australia, there stands an elm tree that has become synonymous with the town's name. In German, ulm means 'elm,' so the town now goes by the name Elm Town. While elm trees typically grow to 60 feet in height, the one in Ulverstone is roughly 122 feet tall- making it the tallest elm tree in the state of Tasmania. In addition to its immense size, the bark of this particular elm is particularly thick and smooth. This, along with its distinguished history, makes this local landmark a worthy subject for examination.

Throughout the year, Elm Town's famous tree boasts a profusion of vibrant green leaves. Springtime brings about a particularly refreshing display when new leaves sprout and old ones die off. In fact, many local residents refer to this periodic change in elm leaves as 'Elm Season.' In winter, however, this magnificent specimen presents an almost dazzling sight. The white bark exudes an almost otherworldly sheen that contrasts starkly with the tree's otherwise darkened limbs. Indeed, some have likened the elm's appearance to that of an intricately carved white column during winter.

In terms of trunk size, an average Elm Town elm grows up to 4 feet in diameter. This makes it one of the largest native trees in Australia. Interestingly enough, each individual Elm Town elm produces up to four pounds of softwood bark annually. Although many believe that bark gives Elm Town its distinct visual texture- for aesthetic purposes, local residents wrap their trees in bark during cold winter months to protect it from cold temperatures and external injury.

Apart from its unique historical significance and aesthetic appeal, elms feature prominently in literary works such as William Blake's poem 'The Tyger and Langston Hughes' poem 'Brickmakers in Denmark.' In addition, Shakespeare featured them in several scenes from his plays. His tragic play Macbeth references an elm by reference when Lady Macbeth describes a 'taper-bearing witches' wings.' Essentially referencing the Witches of Macbeth, these witches - or lamias - are associated with900 years of darkness and insanity. Their physical deformities closely resemble those associated with leprosy in medieval Europe: large papery skin tags and all.

As one of Australia's most famous natural landmarks, the Ulverstone elm stands as a testament to aesthetics, history and naturalism. Its unique characteristics - largest trunk size in Australia, most annual bark production and stunning winter appearance - make it a worthy subject for consideration during any celebratory period or event.