Zelkova Tree

Musashino zelkova (Zelkova serrata 'Musashino') is one a number of Japanese Zelkova tree cultivars widely used in landscaping. With a narrow upright habit compared to other Zelkova cultivars including the popular Zelkova 'Green Vase'. Zelkova species and cultivars make ideal street trees and all prefer full sun to part shade.

Zelkova are also a favorite choice for bonsai where it is regarded as being one of the very best deciduous trees for this art form.

Zelkova species and varieties

Most popular Zelkova trees are Zelkova serrata cultivars. Used widely as street trees a number of forms are avaialable that display different characteristics.

Zelkova serrata 'Green Vase' is a moderate to fast growing tree with an upright habit making it suitable for narrow streets. The Musashino Zelkova (Zelkova serrata 'Musashino') has an even narrower habit.

Zelkova serrata 'Halka' is a large growing spreading tree, sometimes used instead of elm trees, fast growing and generally very hardy. Zelkova serrata 'Village Green' will form a wide crown and makes a good shade tree. Look also to the form Zelkova serrata 'Halka Red' with red foliage.

Zelkova serrata, 'Schmidtlow' (Wireless Zelkova) is a low growing cultivar to 7m but with a wide crown (9m) and is excellent for planting beneath power lines or for use as a shade tree. Again a moderate to fast growing tree.

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