[2] The tree is distinguished by an upspreading crown, in mild winters retaining its foliage into December (Loudon called it "almost evergreen").
Loudon thought the tree of possible Cornish origin, perhaps on account of its straight trunk, ascending branches and foliage, dark green until late in the year.
The Kidbrook Elm was reputed to have grown well on chalky soils, but its shoots were said to be vulnerable to autumn frosts.
[3] Henry recalls seeing only one specimen, at Ashwell Bury near Baldock, which he found resembled the Huntingdon Elm in many respects.
[4] 'Virens' appeared in Thompson & Watson's Gardener's Assistant (London 1901),[5] but Henry reported it apparently "unknown in nurseries" at the time of writing his 1913 work.