Description
Zelkova –
There are about 5 or 6 deciduous monoecious or hermaphrodite trees, occasionally shrubby, within the Ulmacea family, in this genus. They occur naturally in scrub and woodland in Asia Minor across cool climate areas of Western Asia to China and Japan. They are grown for their attractive habit and alternate, pointed elliptical, heavily veined and serrated edged, dark green leaves. The bark is sometimes an attractive feature also. The leaves change to yellow then russet or red, in autumn. Zelkova species are closely related to, and often confused with elms (Ulmus), differing in their unwinged fruits and in their leaves, which are not even at the bases. The very small, inconspicuous, male or hermaphrodite green flowers are borne singly or in small clusters in spring, the males from the lower axils of the shoots, the hermaphrodites higher up, and the flowers are followed by insignificant, spherical green fruits. Zelkova species and cultivars are handsome specimen and street trees, most of them suitable for open parkland and larger gardens. Z. abelicea and dwarf cultivars of Z. serrata are better suited for use in smaller gardens. Good substitutes to elms (Ulmus), where Dutch elm disease is prevalent.
Grow in deep, fertile, moist, but well drained soil in sun or partial shade with plenty of water during summer. Shelter from strong winds.
Prone to bacterial canker, Elm-leaf beetle, and horse chestnut scale.
Z. carpinifolia – Caucasian Elm – Elm Zelkova – This slow growing, upright tree from Asia Minor and the Caucasus grows to 100’ feet tall and 50-80’ feet wide. Normally with a short, thick gray trunk, from which arise many erect branches. Pointed egg shaped, mid green leaves, slightly rough above, to 4” long, each with about 7-12 broad teeth on either side, are russet in autumn. Fragrant but insignificant greenish flowers appear in spring.
Zones 5-9
