The term 'stately hardwoods' refers to a type of tree that is tall and majestic in appearance. The crossword solution for this term is 'elms, ' which are a type of deciduous tree that are native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Elms are known for their tall, stately trunks and wide-spreading branches. They are also popular for their hardwood, which is often used in furniture and flooring.