The Conservation Foundation’s roots go back to the Elms Across Europe project launched in 1978.This involved a propagation programme in the UK of a large number of Sapporo Autumn Gold elms, a disease resistant hybrid developed by the University of Wisconsin.These young elms were supplied to schools, local authorities and private gardens.
Many of these elms survive over thirty years later throughout the country. One of the originals from Wisconsin continues to flourish in the grounds of Windsor Castle.
The Foundation remains committed to our elm projects and to providing a link between many elm enthusiasts. We are most grateful for the help of volunteers while we work to raise funds needed to develop the projects.
Visit the Elm Search map
This accessible, public database records the current state of the elm population.
You can log an elm by uploading photographs of the tree (leaves, bark, shape) with its location and as much other information as possible on the Great British Elm Search map. Once logged, there will be a delay while the submission is verified by one of our volunteers.
Please include photos, we cannot verify your submission without them.
Add a tree to the Elm Search map
Great British Elm Experiment
The Foundation took cuttings from healthy mature trees from across the UK that appear to have resisted Dutch elm disease for over 60 years. These were micro propagated and over 3,000 native saplings were distributed to schools, community groups, local authorities and private landowners to take part in The Great British Elm Experiment. NB: It’s not currently possible to update map data.
Visit the Elm Experiment map
“We want to interest a new generation in the elm, so much a feature of the British life and landscape for centuries and try to discover which trees really are resistant to Dutch elm disease.”
David Shreeve, Director
Height, girth, wildlife, signs of disease and other data is being recorded as part of this long-term experiment which will, hopefully, lead in time to a new generation of elms to become established throughout the UK and encourage future generations to value elms and their biodiversity. Listen to elms and GBEE being discussed on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time (25 minutes in).
Where can I source elms?
The public planting phase of The Great British Elm Experiment has ended and we are no longer able to supply trees.
Various commercial nurseries can provide elms. Remember, it is very difficult for anyone to guarantee a tree as being ‘disease resistant’.
