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Japanese Zelkova

Zelkova serrata
Zones: 5 - 8
  • Offers dense shade
  • Develops a peeling bark in old age, exposing orange patches of inner bark
  • Features ovate to oblong-ovate dark green leaves with serrated margins and a slightly rough texture that are 1 ¼ –2" long
  • Provides fall color in shades of yellow, orange, brown, deep red, and reddish-purple
  • Yields small, kidney bean-shaped drupes that measure around ¼" in diameter and ripen in the fall
  • Is a popular bonsai tree
  • Tolerates wind, drought, and air pollution
  • Grows in a vase shape
  • Turns into high-quality, durable, strong timber that is used for furniture and construction
  • Should be transplanted in the spring, as young trees are susceptible to frost

Tree Details

Shape

Vase

Growth Speed

Medium

Scientific Name

Zelkova serrata

Mature Height

50' - 80'

Mature Spread

50' - 75'

Highlights

The Japanese zelkova is a good street and shade tree that has an appealing vase-shaped form with a rounded crown. Green leaves turn yellow, copper, orange, or deep red to purplish-red in fall, putting on a showy display. The peeling bark on older trees exposes orange patches, which can be quite impressive.

As it is tolerant to drought and air pollution, this tree is a nice option for a variety of urban locations.

Sun Preference

Full Sun

Soil Preference

Acidic, Alkaline, Drought, Moist

History/Lore

Native to Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Manchuria, the Japanese zelkova was introduced in America in 1862. This tree also goes by the common name Keaki.