Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
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University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata

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Japanese Zelkova form
Japanese Zelkova form
 
Features

Russet fall color; bark peels and flakes giving a mottled appearance.

 
 
Culture
Full sun; moist, well drained soil; pH adaptable; drought tolerant. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Green Vase'-strong vase shape, good fall color, faster growing than the species.
  • 'Halka'- good vase shape and fast growth rate, yellow fall color.
  • 'Illinois Hardy.-considered more reliably cold-hardy than other cultivars.
  • 'Village Green'-strong vase shape, reddish fall color.
 
 
Mature Height
50-75 Feet
 
Size
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Vase shaped with a short trunk 
 
Native To:

Japan

 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Dry Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Shade
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Brown
Red
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease

Insect Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Few problems; fairly resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.

 
Additional Notes

Although this species is related to elms, it is not seriously troubled by many of the common elm problems (Dutch Elm Disease, elm leaf beetle and Japanese beetle).

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic