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Zelkova serrata ‘Green Vase’ – Green Vase Japanese Zelkova

About Your New Zelkova serrata ‘Green Vase’ – Green Vase Japanese Zelkova

Zelkova serrata 'Green Vase' is a selected form of Japanese Zelkova grown for its even, upward flaring vase of branches. Rich green serrated foliage builds a broad, symmetrical crown through the warm months, then turns yellow, orange and bronze in autumn before dropping. The bark is smooth grey, flaking with age.

Expect around 12 to 15 metres in height and 9 to 12 metres of spread in time, at roughly 50 centimetres to 1 metre a year. It takes full sun and most soil types, along with heat, wind and urban conditions, and is drought tolerant once established. It is frost tolerant, handling light to moderate frost once settled.

The uniform habit is what recommends it for avenue and streetscape work, where a matched line of trees matters more than individual character. It also stands alone well in parkland and larger residential gardens. Anyone specifying an elm replacement gets the same arching silhouette without the disease exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Green Vase Zelkova

What is Zelkova serrata 'Green Vase'?

It is a named cultivar of Japanese Zelkova selected for a consistent vase shaped crown and strong branch attachment. The foliage is deep green and finely serrated through spring and summer, colouring through yellow, orange and bronze in autumn. It is deciduous, elm like in silhouette, and resistant to Dutch elm disease.

How big does 'Green Vase' get?

In cultivation it settles at roughly 12 to 15 metres tall with a spread of 9 to 12 metres, growing about 50 centimetres to 1 metre a year. The crown lifts and flares rather than spreading low, so useable space under the canopy opens up early. Allow the full width when siting it near buildings.

What makes 'Green Vase' different from a seedling Japanese Zelkova?

Seedling grown Zelkova varies in shape from tree to tree. 'Green Vase' is propagated from a single selection, so every plant carries the same upright vase form, similar branch angles and matched autumn colour. That predictability is why it is specified for avenues and streets where a uniform line is the whole point.

When does it colour up in autumn?

Autumn, generally through April and May in southern Australia, running later in warm coastal gardens and earlier in cold inland districts. Colour moves from green to yellow, then orange and bronze, and holds for several weeks in a settled season. Cold nights and dry, still weather give the strongest display.

Is 'Green Vase' suitable for street planting?

Yes, it is one of the standard choices for street and avenue work. The vase form clears vehicles and pedestrians as the crown lifts, the wood is strong, and it tolerates compacted soil, reflected heat, wind and pollution. Given its mature width it belongs on wider verges and medians rather than narrow footpaths.

Is it frost tolerant?

Yes. It is frost tolerant and handles light to moderate frost once established, and because it is bare through winter the cold has no foliage to damage. Young trees in their first winter benefit from mulch over the root zone in colder districts. Late frost may nip early spring growth, which the tree simply replaces.

How do I care for 'Green Vase' Zelkova?

Stake and water it well for the first two to three summers, then reduce watering as the roots reach out. Mulch to the drip line without touching the trunk. Prune only in the early years, to establish one leader and clear crossing limbs. Mature trees need little more than occasional deadwood removal.

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Uses in my Garden

  • Avenue Planting
  • Street Tree
  • Shade Tree

Zelkova serrata ‘Green Vase’ – Green Vase Japanese Zelkova works in an:

  • Contemporary / Architectural Garden – striking forms for bold design statements.

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Planting Information

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