Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata)

Moderate to long lived species, developing as an attractive shade tree with showy autumn foliage and attractive bark.

Origin:

East Asia, Japan, Korea.

Habit:

Moderate to fast growing medium to large deciduous tree typically developing a short single trunk with ascending branches forming an ovoid to rounded canopy.  In its natural environment the species can attain heights of up to 30m. In southern Australia mature dimension of about 18-25m in height x 15-18m width can be expected.

Description:

Leaves, bright to dark green, oblong – ovate with a serrated margin, to 12cm long.  Autumn leaf colours range from yellow, coppery-bronze to red.  Flowers and fruit are inconspicuous, occurring spring.  Bark is Smooth grey, exfoliating in patches to reveal orange, brown & pink.

Tolerances:

Prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade.  Will tolerate most soil types and varying pH levels. Tolerates heat and strong winds. Moderately drought tolerant, though intolerant of ?waterlogged soils

Root space:

Based on 75% of mature size tree would require approximately 143m2 area or 86m3 root volume (crown projection method).

Availability:

Commonly available.

Uses & management:

Adaptable to urban environments.  Moderate to long lived species, developing as an attractive shade tree with showy autumn foliage and attractive bark. Transplants easily.  Crowding of branches forming acute angled branch attachments can develop atop the trunk and when  this occurs requires formative pruning to develop good branch structure.  Generally free of any serious pests or diseases.  Several distinctive cultivars have been developed including ‘Green Vase’ developing as a tall, tree with vase shaped canopy that is available in AustraliaAfter the devastating bush fires this beauty from Queensland is our featured tree because of its fire retardant properties.

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