PSC 2620: Woody Trees and ShrubCourse HomeWeek 7

Zelkova serrata - Japanese Zelkova

Plant Viewer
The leaves of Zelkova are 1-2 inches long and ovate in shape. They are dark glossy green on the top of the leaf. The bark is grey and has prominent lenticels. As the bark matures it begins to exfoliate in plates.

Plant Description

Zelkova serrata, or Japanese Zelkova, is a large shade tree, 50-80 feet tall and and 40-60 feet wide. It forms a strong vase shape early and maintains that shape even when mature. It is a good replacement for Elm trees and is becoming increasingly popular. It is somewhat tolerant of soil and climate conditions, but performs better in well-drained soils with regular watering. The bark is a cool grey color with prominent lenticels. The bark exfoliate in small patches to reveal orange undertones.

The dark green leaf is ovate, 1-2 inches long and arranged alternately on the stem. It has very visible venation in a pinnate pattern on the leaf. The margin is regularly serrated. In fall the leaves turns a mixture of yellow, orange, red and brown. The fall color is good on some trees but there is a great deal of variation between individual specimens.

Landscape Use

It is a good selection for a lawn or shade tree. Its good vase shape makes it an ideal selection for street trees or for use in parking lots.

Points of interest

It is susceptible to Japanese beetle but has good resistance to Dutch Elm Disease.

Notable Cultivars

City Sprite A small cultivar of Zelkova, it grows 25 feet high and 18 feet wide. It is a bit more oval in shape. The fall color is yellow. A very good selection for a street tree, especially under power lines.


Village Green A large variety growing 50-60 feet tall. It grows quickly and vigorously, especially when young.