Zelkova serrata

Description

Also known as Japanese Zelkova, Zelkova Serrata is a medium sized tree usually growing up to 20m in height. With upright stems it forms a broad spreading habit and rounded crown, the perfect specimen tree.

Tiny green flowers appear in spring as the foliage begins to emerge, which become small wingless drupes which mature in autumn. The oblong leaves have a serrated margin and are green through spring and summer then turning orange-red in autumn. Another attractive feature is the smooth grey bark which starts to flake in maturity to reveal beautiful orange patches.

Relatively fast growing when young it will tolerate nearly all soils, but does best in a moist, well drained location. A tolerance to urban climates also makes it a good candidate for street planting.