Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct
Zelkova serrata - Evergreen Trees Direct

Zelkova serrata (Japanese Elm Tree)

100L: Approximately 2.6 m – 3.7 m tall
40cm/45L: Approximately 2.6 m – 3.2 m tall
30cm/33cm: Approximately 2.4 m – 2.6 m tall

Please note: These height guides are approximate, as we work with live plants and natural variation is expected. The measurements provided reflect typical stock sizing but may vary between batches.

Size
Regular price
$555.00
Sale price
$555.00
Regular price
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
A GRADE STOCK, EVERY TIME.

Learn About Your New Zelkova serrata - Japanese Zelkova

Zelkova serrata, commonly known as Japanese Zelkova, looks excellent in urban and park landscapes with its broad, rounded canopy and striking serrated leaves. Its bright green foliage turns vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and bronze in autumn, providing a gorgeous seasonal display.

This deciduous tree features smooth, exfoliating bark with a patchwork of orange and gray, adding year-round interest. It thrives in full sun and adapts well to various environments, making it a reliable shade or street tree. Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering in dry spells and early growth stages.

For added impact, Japanese Zelkova pairs well with underplantings of shade-tolerant shrubs or groundcovers to enhance garden structure and biodiversity.

Plant Profile
Planting & Spacing Tips
Post Planting Care
Tips for Various Soil Types

1. Botanical & Physical Characteristics

BOTANICAL NAME:
Zelkova serrata
GENUS:
Zelkova
BOTANICAL SPECIES:
serrata
COMMON NAME:
Japanese Zelkova
FAMILY:
Ulmaceae
EVERGREEN / DECIDUOUS:
Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months)
FOLIAGE TYPE
  • Serrated
FORM & SHAPE
  • Upright
  • Spreading

2. Growth & Environmental Conditions

GROWTH RATE
  • Medium Growth Rate
EXPECTED GROWTH PER YEAR

Approx. 40 – 60 cm/year (Moderate)

MATURE HEIGHT

15m - 25m Approximately

MATURE WIDTH

10 m – 15 m

SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE
  • Full Sun
FROST TOLERANCE

Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE?
No

3. Practical Uses & Flowering

USES:
  • Screening or Privacy
  • Feature Tree
  • Council or Civic Landscapes
FLOWER COLOUR
Not Applicable
FLOWER TYPE
  • Not Applicable
FLOWERING PERIOD

Planting Tips

Plant Spacing

Hedging & Screening: Not suitable for hedging

Feature Tree: Plant 6 m – 8 m apart to allow for full canopy spread

Avenue Planting: Space 8 m – 10 m apart for structured rows and mature growth clearance

Ensuring A Strong Start

How to Plant:

  • Choose a location with well-draining soil and exposure to full sun.
  • Dig a hole that is the same depth as the root ball and at least twice as wide.
  • Place the tree in the hole at the correct depth.
  • Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and add mulch to conserve moisture.

Root Ball Dimensions (Width × Depth) for Planting

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

  • 30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
  • 40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
  • 50cm Pot: 49.5cm (W) × 35.2cm (D)
  • 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
  • 100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
  • 100L Pot: 66cm (W) × 49.5cm (D)
  • 150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
  • 200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
  • 300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
  • 400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
  • 1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
  • 2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

Post Planting Care

When planting a new tree or shrub, proper watering is essential to ensure healthy establishment and long-term growth. Follow these guidelines to give your plant the best start:

  1. Immediately After Planting:
    Water generously right after planting to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets. This helps the roots make good contact with the soil.
  2. First Three Months (Establishment Phase):
    The initial three months are critical for root development. Water deeply twice daily (morning and evening) to encourage strong, deep root growth.
  3. Irrigation Systems:
    If using an irrigation system, adjust it to provide adequate water during the establishment phase. Ensure the water reaches the root zone without overwatering.
  4. Weather Considerations:
    Adjust watering based on weather conditions. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods and reduce it during cooler, wetter seasons.
  5. Ongoing Care:
    After the establishment phase (3 months), gradually reduce watering frequency but ensure the plant receives consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Long Term & Ongoing Care

Caring for Zelkova serrata:

  • Prune as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to maintain the tree's shape.
  • Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system.
  • Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage as the leaves change color in autumn.

Growing Your Zelkova serrata (Japanese Elm Tree) in Various Soil Types

How to Grow in Different Soil Types

Zelkova serrata adapts well to most well-drained soils but prefers deep, fertile ground.

Sandy Soil: Drains quickly; add organic matter to retain moisture.

Clay Soil: Can become compacted—loosen with compost and gypsum to improve aeration.

Loamy Soil: Ideal for healthy root development and strong canopy growth.

Acidic or Alkaline Soil: Tolerates a wide pH range, but prefers slightly a

Here is what customers like you frequently ask

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Is this tree suitable for urban environments?
    Yes, Japanese Zelkova is commonly used as a street tree or in urban parks due to its adaptability, graceful form, and ornamental value.
  • Does Zelkova serrata attract wildlife?
    While it may provide habitat for small birds and insects, it is not known for attracting wildlife in significant numbers.
  • Is it tolerant of different soil types?
    Yes, the Japanese Zelkova is adaptable to various soil types, making it a versatile and hardy tree.

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