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. 2. Moisten peat moss or vermiculite. Place in a plastic bag and add the Zelkova seeds. 3. Seal the plastic bag and label with the seed name and date with a permanent marker. Place in the refrigerator for six weeks. 4. Open the bag and check the seeds every week. If any seeds are sprouting, plant immediately. 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. 6. Transplant the seedlings outdoors in early spring. (source: ehow.com) |