The Brahan Elm

 

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The largest-girthed wych elm (Ulmus glabra) in the United Kingdom resides at Brahan Estate, Easter Ross. 

Planted in 1735, this ‘champion’ measures 7.03 metres (23 feet) in girth, reaching a height of 25.6 metres (84 feet) in 2002.  It is a fine, open-grown specimen in an area of historic parkland, and still enjoys good health, despite its exposed location.

Wych elm is native to the UK, and is the species of elm most commonly found in Scotland.  The Brahan tree has so far escaped the ravages of Dutch elm disease, a fungus spread from tree to tree by a bark beetle.

Where to see the Brahan Elm:

Private parkland south of Brahan House on Brahan Estate, on the south side of the A835 road about 4.8 (3 miles) west of Maryburgh, Easter Ross, Highland.  Access is available by permission only.

Image: copyright Archie Miles