The State Tree of Massachusetts is the American elm (Ulmus americana). American Elms have been widely planted as street trees throughout the United States because of their urn-like shape; when planted on opposing sides of the street, they create a tunnel-like canopy. While much of the Eastern seaboard was logged before the 20th century, many older elms were left standing because of their limited commercial use. In some places, some of these ancient trees remain standing.
