Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata
Family: Ulmaceae
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Mature Height: ~15 m (~50 ft)
Fall Color: Yellow, orange, rusty
Native Range: Zelkovas are native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan and do not have a native range in North America.
Features
The base of zelkova leaves is symmetrical. The leaves are small and narrow with serrated edges and are rough on top. The fruit of zelkovas is a nut-like drupe. It is very small and green before maturing to brown. The fruit and the flowers are found very close to the leaves along slender twigs. The bark of zelkovas is a distinctive, identifying feature. It is gray and smooth with horizontal stripes which becomes mottled as it matures. The mottled bark reveals an orangish-brown inner bark.
Fun Facts
● The Latin word serrata in the name refers to the serrated edges of the leaves.
● Zelkovas are typically planted in residential and ornamental areas as an ornamental shade tree.
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