With around forty-five species of elm found in forests in the northern hemisphere to the tropical mountains of Asia, we’re spoilt for choice. Here, I focus on the wych elm. In Gerard’s time, elm trees were common in all parts of Britain. Many elm species, particularly European and American, have …
Introduction The birch tree is the ‘lady of the forest’ with its silvery bark, elegant white boughs and delicate leaves. The Latin name for the tree is from the Celtic betul, and the history of its name may date back to the Sanskrit bhurga, meaning ‘a tree whose bark is …
Introduction The Beech belongs to the same family as the oak and chestnut – Fagaceae. Its species name Fagus sylvatica refers to the tree’s woodland habitat. There are differences of opinion about its arrival in Britain. Some sources lean heavily on the report of the Gallic wars in De Bello …
It’s been a chilly old Winter this year, and I trust you have had lovely festivities over the past couple of weeks. Winter is an exciting time for me as a forager. While others bemoan the decline in wild edible plants, I, on the other hand, get all excited wondering …