Zelkova serrata aka Japanese Zelkova

Taxonomy

Genus Zelkova Family Ulmaceae Order Rosales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Zelkova serrata, also known as Japanese zelkova, Japanese elm, keyaki, or keaki, is a species of the Zelkova genus. It is native to Japan, Korea, eastern China, and Taiwan and is grown as an ornamental tree, often used in bonsai. There are two varieties of Zelkova serrata: Zelkova serrata var. serrata in Japan and mainland eastern Asia and Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis (Hayata) Li on Taiwan, which has smaller leaves with less deeply cut serration on the margins. Zelkova bonsai plants are resistant to many diseases and are typically associated with the broom style. The bark is grey and smooth, and the young shoots are initially reddish. The leaves are simple and ovate to oblong-ovate with serrated margins, dark green in summer, and changing to yellow, orange, red, and purple in autumn. The leaf size decreases quickly when grown in a pot. The Japanese greybark elm is a classic Japanese bonsai and prototype of the broomstyle, but it can also be styled in other upright shapes. Zelkova is related to elm trees and is noted for its graceful shape, clean foliage, attractive bark, and resistance to disease. It is a good shade tree with excellent fall color and easy fall cleanup. Zelkova has been promoted as a substitute for American elm due to its resistance to Dutch elm disease. The species can tolerate slight frost and is easy to care for.

Common names

Japanese Zelkova, Saw Leaf Zelkova, Water Elm

How to care for Japanese Zelkova

Difficulty

Japanese Zelkova presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Japanese Zelkova should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Japanese Zelkova loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Japanese Zelkova thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Water Elm.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Japanese Zelkova to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Japanese Zelkova is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Japanese Zelkova’s native range is E. Asia - E. China, Japan.

More info:
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More Species in Zelkova Genus

Zelkova carpinifolia Caucasian Elm

Zelkova schneideriana Schneider's Zelkova