Japanese Zelkova

Scientific Name: Zelkova serrata

Family: Ulmaceae

Origin: Japan, Korea, Taiwan & Eastern China

Japanese Zelkova

Common Names: Japanese Zelkova, Japanese Elm, Keaki

Mature Height: 50-80 feet

Mature Width/Spread: 50-80 feet

Leaves: Simple, alternately arranged dark green elliptical leaves with serrated margins, which is the reason for its species name serrata

In the fall, the leaves become: The leaves will range in color from yellow, to yellow-orange to red-brown.

 What other ways can you identify the Japanese Zelkova? By the appearance of its bark, which is smooth and peels to expose an orange inner bark.

Did you know …

  • This tree is commonly used as a substitute for the American elm because it is resistant to Dutch elm disease.
  • Was first brought to the United States in 1862.
  • It is commonly used for Bonsai.
Bark of a Mature Japanese Zelkova
Bark of a Mature Japanese Zelkova
Japanese Zelkova Leaves & Foliage in Spring
Japanese Zelkova Leaves & Foliage in Spring

Sources

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a927

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zelkova_serrata

https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=941y

Photo Credit

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