Casting dense shade with its spreading, vase-shaped canopy, Japanese zelkova has handsome bark and pleasing dark glossy green foliage that turns bronzy orange or burgundy in autumn. A medium to tall, deciduous tree from eastern Asia, it is often suggested and used as a disease-resistant substitute for the closely related American elm. The small oval leaves are toothed with a pointed tip. The smooth, dull grayish tan bark eventually exfoliates to reveal underlying rusty-orange patches. The inconspicuous green flowers emerge with the leaves and result in small green fruits.
For lushest growth, plant Japanese zelkova in full sun in any fertile moist well-drained soil. This tree has remarkable tolerance for heat and drought. It makes a good shade tree for residences, parks, campuses, streets, or formal allees. (info source: Learn2Grow.com)
Genus - Zelkova
Species - Serrata
Common name - Japanese Zelkova
Pre-Treatment - Required
Hardiness zones - 4 - 8
Height - 40'-80' / 12.2m - 24.4m
Spread - 40'-60' / 12.2m - 18.3m
Plant type - Tree
Vegetation type - Deciduous
Exposure - Full sun
Growth rate - Fast
Soil PH - Acidic, Neutral
Soil type - Clay, loam, well drained
Water requirements - Average Water
Landscape uses - Feature Plant, Shade Trees, Street Trees
Germination rate - 82%
Bloom season - Late Spring
Leaf / Flower color - Dark Green / Green
Useful Info | |
Germination | 1. Soak the Zelkova seeds in warm, not boiling, water for 24 to 48 hours.<br /> 2. Moisten peat moss or vermiculite. Place in a plastic bag and add the Zelkova seeds.<br /> 3. Seal the plastic bag and label with the seed name and date with a permanent marker. Place in the refrigerator for six weeks.<br /> 4. Open the bag and check the seeds every week. If any seeds are sprouting, plant immediately.<br /> 5. Sow the seeds in sterile potting mix, one per pot, and cover with one inch of soil. Place in a warm, brightly lit location. Keep moist until the remaining seeds germinate.<br /> 6. Transplant the seedlings outdoors in early spring. (source: ehow.com) |