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Description
Zelkova Serrata is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Ulmaceae. It is native to Japan, Taiwan, and eastern China. The tree is commonly known as Japanese zelkova, and it can grow up to 30 meters tall. The leaves are ovate, with serrated edges and a pointed tip. They turn yellow or bronze in autumn, making the tree an attractive ornamental plant. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, which becomes furrowed as the tree ages. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, which makes it a popular choice for furniture and other wood products.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Zelkova |
Appearance
Zelkova Serrata has a vase-shaped crown and a spreading, rounded canopy. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and 20 meters wide. The leaves are ovate, with serrated edges and a pointed tip. They are 4-10 cm long and 2-6 cm wide. The leaves are green in summer and turn yellow or bronze in autumn. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, becoming furrowed with age. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, with a light brown color and a tight grain pattern.
Care Guide
Water: Zelkova Serrata prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
Soil: Zelkova Serrata prefers loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Zelkova Serrata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in weak growth and disease susceptibility.
Hardiness Zones: Zelkova Serrata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zelkova Serrata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Japanese beetle
- Scale insects
- Borers
- Leaf spot
- Powdery mildew
- Canker
- Root rot
Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent and manage these issues.
Habitat
Zelkova Serrata is native to Japan, Taiwan, and eastern China. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The tree is commonly planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and along streets. In its natural habitat, it grows in mixed forests and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zelkova Serrata a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Zelkova Serrata is a good shade tree. It has a spreading, rounded canopy that provides ample shade.
Q: How fast does Zelkova Serrata grow?
A: Zelkova Serrata grows at a moderate rate of 1-2 feet per year.
Q: When should I prune Zelkova Serrata?
A: Prune Zelkova Serrata in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and thin out the canopy to improve air circulation.
Q: Can Zelkova Serrata tolerate drought?
A: Zelkova Serrata can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moist soil. Water the tree deeply during drought periods to help it survive.
Related Plants
- Zelkova Carpinifolia
- Zelkova Sinica
- Zelkova Sericea
References
- “Zelkova Serrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a762>.
- “Zelkova Serrata.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed 27 August 2021. <https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/japanese-zelkova>.
- “Zelkova Serrata (Japanese Zelkova).” Trees of Stanford & Environs. Accessed 27 August 2021. <https://trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/ZELser.htm>.
