our timbers

canadian red elm (ulmus rubra)

canadian red elm grows in abundance on the shores of the great lakes. a hard and durable timber with impressive shock and bending resistance. this strength comes from the very fibrous grain.

also known as slippery elm, it has a number of medicinal uses including being made into a thin porridge or gruel by grinding the bark. it can also be dried and powdered to make a herbal tea. the inner bark can be spun into thread or rope. the bending and shock resistance made red elm ideal for the wagon wheels of early settlers crossing the large north american continent.

red elm has a vibrant swirling interlocked grain and figure with sweeping, curving high arches. the colours are most attractive, varying from rich warm russet red, to smoky brown with occasional swathes of cream and hints of pistachio. the grain is often burred, and the knots are small and dark.

as an alternative to oak in country houses, or barn conversions. as a traditional timber, it has a rich warmth which is ideal with country antiques and bygones or simple cream or white washed furniture. but also pretty in country contemporary drawing rooms with pretty florals, or simple faded linens.


native european collection