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Description
Zelkova Carpinifolia, also known as Caucasian Zelkova or Caucasian Elm, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Ulmaceae family. This tree is native to the Caucasus region in Eurasia and can grow up to 30 meters tall with a spread of 20 meters. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but it becomes more rounded as it ages. The bark is gray and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured with age. The leaves are dark green in color and have a serrated edge. In autumn, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow-orange color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Zelkova |
| Species | Carpinifolia |
Appearance
The tree is known for its attractive appearance. It has a pyramidal shape when young, but it becomes more rounded as it ages. The bark is gray and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured with age. The leaves are dark green in color and have a serrated edge. In autumn, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow-orange color. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by small, winged fruits.
Care Guide
Zelkova Carpinifolia is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zelkova Carpinifolia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of a sticky substance on the branches.
- Japanese beetle: This beetle can cause skeletonization of the leaves.
Habitat
Zelkova Carpinifolia is native to the Caucasus region in Eurasia. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. The tree is commonly found in parks, gardens, and along streets.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zelkova Carpinifolia a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Zelkova Carpinifolia is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Does Zelkova Carpinifolia have any special requirements for soil?
A: Zelkova Carpinifolia prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Is Zelkova Carpinifolia resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Zelkova Carpinifolia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Zelkova Carpinifolia?
A: The tree is hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Related Plants
- Zelkova serrata
- Zelkova sinica
- Zelkova carpinifolia var. parvifolia
References
- “Zelkova carpinifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Zelkova carpinifolia.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org.
- “Caucasian Zelkova.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk.
