An elegant vase-shaped shade tree related to elms, with serrated leaves turning shades of yellow, orange and bronze-red in autumn and attractive flaking grey bark. Tough and elm-disease resistant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 15 m H × 12 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata is a moderate-growing tree in the Ulmaceae family. It reaches around 15 m tall and 12 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Japanese Zelkova
Japanese Zelkova suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Japanese Zelkova does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Zelkova is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Japanese Zelkova in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Japanese Zelkova in the garden
Japanese Zelkova earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and bonsai culture.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Japanese Zelkova with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Japanese Zelkova
Plant Sale lists Japanese Zelkova as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.