Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata
- Native to:
- China, Japan, Korea, Kuril Is., Taiwan
Caveman2






Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Ulmaceae
- Genus:
- Zelkova
- Species:
- Zelkova serrata
- USDA Symbol:
- ZESE80
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Tree
- Height:
- 3000 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★★★★☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Fall Color:
- red, orange, yellow
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- good drainage preferred
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- thrives in fertile, deep soils
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 1-2 months to break dormancy.
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Sheffield's Seed (seeds)