Japanese zelkova, Smooth-leaved Zelkova
Zelkova serrata

Family: Ulmaceae

What it is like

A medium sized deciduous tree. It grows to 20-40 m high. The branches are straight and spreading. They form a neat rounded crown. The bark is smooth when young. It flakes to reveal orange patches. The leaves are alternate and have a long sharp tip. The leaves are oval and 3-11 cm long by 1.3-7 cm wide. They have saw like teeth. The leaves turn orange and yellow in autumn. Male and female flowers occur on the same twig. They are green and small. The fruit is small and round.

There are 5 Zelkova species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It is native to China, Japan and Korea. It grows in moist soil near streams. It can tolerate some shade. It needs a moist soil. It suits hardiness zones 5-9. Arboretum Tasmania. Hobart Botanical Gardens. Burnie Rhodo Gardens. In Sichuan. National Arboretum Canberra.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Britain, Canada, China, Europe, Japan, Korea, North America, Russia, Slovenia, Taiwan, Tasmania, USA

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown from seeds or cuttings. It is also possible to use layers or grafts.

Its other names

Local names

Guangye Ju, Keaki

Synonyms

Zelkova acuminata;