A revision of the British elms (Ulmus L., Ulmaceae): the historical background

Abstract

The British elms have historically proven to be recalcitrant taxonomically, with at least six different levels of treatment being applied. The taxonomic history of the group and the nomenclature is outlined from the ancient authors up until the present day. This paper is the foundation for future articles in which a novel taxonomic treatment is introduced. (C) 1996 The Linnean Society of London.