Zelkova serrata

Common Name:
Japanese Zelkova

Description:
Zelkova serrata, commonly known as the Japanese Zelkova, is a graceful, medium to large deciduous tree admired for its elegant vase-shaped form, attractive peeling bark, and spectacular autumn foliage. The finely serrated, lance-shaped leaves emerge bright green in spring and summer before turning brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and deep red in autumn. The smooth grey bark exfoliates over time, revealing patches of orange and brown, adding year-round visual interest.

This tough, adaptable tree thrives in full sun and well-drained soils and is highly resistant to drought, urban pollution, and wind, making it an excellent choice for street planting, avenue planting, and large gardens. With its strong branching structure, Zelkova serrata is often considered a great alternative to the American Elm, as it is highly resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.

Form:

• Tree - Medium to Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 10–18 m
• Width: 8–12 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring (Inconspicuous)

Flower Colour:

• Greenish (Not Ornamental)

Key Attributes:

• Strong Shade Provider
• Spectacular Autumn Colour
• Drought Tolerant (once established)
• Disease Resistant (including Dutch Elm Disease)
• Wind and Pollution Tolerant
• Suitable for Street and Avenue Planting
• Deciduous

Toxicity:

• Not known to be toxic to humans or pets.

Companion Plants:

• Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
• Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweet Gum)
• Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle)
• Ginkgo biloba
• Betula pendula (Silver Birch)