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Bendy elm defies Dutch elm disease to be crowned UK tree of the year

The 150-year-old wych elm in Newcastle, County Down, wins against the odds for its sideways growth and survival

By LineZotpaper
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The Bendy Tree, a 150-year-old wych elm in Newcastle, County Down, that grew almost horizontally due to strong seaside winds and survived Dutch elm disease, has been named UK tree of the year by the Woodland Trust.

The tree, which stands as the last remaining of a row planted in the mid-19th century to shelter the main street from sea winds, owes its distinctive shape to the persistent winds off the Irish Sea. Many of the original trees were felled during town redevelopments.

May Chemais, ancient tree inventory lead for the Woodland Trust, described the tree as "astonishing and bizarre." "We've all been through changes and hardships that have shaped who we are: I think that's why the Bendy Tree has struck a chord with people," she said.

John Martin, director of the Woodland Trust NI, emphasised the whimsical nature of the tree as making it a worthy winner. The competition's theme this year was "against the odds," reflecting the tree's resistance to Dutch elm disease, a fungus that has destroyed most of the UK's 30 million elms.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • Highlights the cultural and ecological value of notable trees in the UK.
  • Draws attention to the threat Dutch elm disease poses to elm populations.
  • Encourages public appreciation and conservation of ancient trees.

Background

The Woodland Trust runs an annual tree of the year competition to celebrate remarkable trees across the UK. Dutch elm disease, caused by the fungus Ophiostoma ulmi, has devastated elm populations since the 1960s, killing millions of trees. The Bendy Tree's survival is exceptional.

Key Perspectives

Woodland Trust: The competition focuses on trees with remarkable stories of survival, like the Bendy Tree, which has endured harsh coastal conditions and disease. Local community: The tree is a beloved local landmark in Newcastle, County Down, and a link to the town's 19th-century history. Conservationists: The tree's resistance to Dutch elm disease may offer insights for breeding disease-resistant elms.

What to Watch

  • Whether the Bendy Tree will be entered into the European Tree of the Year competition.
  • Ongoing monitoring of the tree's health in the face of climate change and disease.
  • Public engagement with tree conservation initiatives inspired by the award.

Sources

Zotpaper

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