The Zelkova tree, sometimes called “Zeldina,” is a popular, adaptable shade tree. This deciduous tree has a distinctive vase-like form, provides ample shade, and offers excellent fall color. Its resilience and ability to thrive in diverse conditions make it a favored choice.
Zelkova Tree Characteristics
Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata) is a large deciduous tree with a distinctive vase-shaped growth habit, broadening into a rounded crown. It typically reaches 50 to 80 feet tall with a 50 to 75-foot spread, ideal for significant shade.
Young Zelkova bark is smooth and gray; as the tree ages, it exfoliates in patches, revealing an orange-brown inner layer. Leaves are simple, alternate, ovate, and sharply serrated, maintaining a mid-green color through summer. In autumn, foliage turns vibrant gold, russet, red, or purple. Zelkova wood is strong, and the tree tolerates urban conditions like pollution, heat, and compacted soils.
Planting Zelkova Trees
Planting a Zelkova tree begins with selecting an appropriate site. They thrive best in full sun (at least six hours daily) for optimal growth. While adaptable to various soil types, they prefer moist, well-drained, deep, fertile loam. Avoid overly wet or poorly drained sites.
Plant in early spring or fall, avoiding extreme summer heat or harsh winter. Dig the hole two to three times wider than the root ball and only as deep. Ensure the root flare remains exposed at or slightly above the soil surface. Backfill with native soil, tamp gently to remove air pockets, and water deeply.
Caring for Zelkova Trees
After planting, care focuses on consistent moisture, nutrition, and structural maintenance. Young trees need regular watering for their first two to three years to establish a strong root system. Established Zelkovas are moderately drought-tolerant but benefit from supplemental deep watering during dry periods (about one inch per week) to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization is generally not required for established Zelkova trees in fertile soil. If soil is poor or compacted, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support growth.
Mulching is beneficial; apply a two to three-inch layer of organic mulch (e.g., bark or wood chips) around the tree’s base. This conserves soil moisture, moderates temperature, and protects the trunk from mechanical damage. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain the tree’s strong branching structure and vase shape. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and thin crowded limbs to improve air circulation and light penetration. Structural pruning in youth helps develop a well-formed canopy. Established trees are hardy in winter, but young trees may need protection from harsh winds in colder zones until acclimated.
Common Problems with Zelkova
While Zelkova trees are resilient and often resistant to common elm diseases like Dutch elm disease, they can still have issues. Environmental stresses (drought, improper planting depth, poor soil drainage) frequently cause problems like leaf scorch or general decline. Proper site selection and planting minimize these risks.
Pests like Japanese beetles and leafhoppers can damage foliage. Aphids and scale insects may also appear, though severe infestations are uncommon. Regular inspection helps in early detection and management. Diseases like powdery mildew, anthracnose, or canker can cause discolored blotches on leaves or affect branches. Proper pruning to remove infected parts and ensuring good air circulation helps manage these issues. If problems persist, consult a local arborist for targeted solutions.