Zelkova serrata commonly known as Japanese zelkova is a deciduous tree that grows to 15-18m in height. This attractive tree has a vase shaped form when young and a rounded umbrella-like habit when mature. Older trees grown in the open can have a very wide and majestic canopy. The bark is smooth and light grey, with prominent raised lenticels (small wart like corky swellings that allow for the passage of oxygen and carbon dioxide). The bark peels to reveal orange patches. The leaves are alternate, somewhat rough on top, oblong-ovate, 2.5-5cm long but can be up to 12.5cm long on some fast growing shoots. They have tapering tips, prominent veins and marginal teeth. The foliage usually puts on a showy display in fall when the leaves turn yellow then orange or red before dropping. The flowers are small and insignificant. The fruits are green rounded dry nutlike drupes about 0.625cm across. Zelkova serrata is native to Japan, Taiwan and southern Korea. This tree is often used in American and European landscapes. Japanese zelkova is adaptable to a wide range of site and soil conditions. It grows in alkaline to acidic soils; is wind and drought tolerant; and endures urban air pollution. It is susceptible to Dutch elm disease, but the elm bark beetle which spreads the disease rarely feeds on zelkova so infection is rare. Light: Full sun to partial shade. Moisture: established trees are fairly drought tolerant, but the finest specimens are grown with regular watering. Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 – 9. Zelkova is decidedly elm like in shape and is often used as a replacement for American elm where the latter has died out due to Dutch elm disease. This is a handsome street tree or specimen for a park or large garden. They are valued for their stately wide-spreading canopy and excellent fall colour. There are smaller cultivars available for smaller gardens. Japanese zelkova is an important timber tree in Japan, where its close-grained high quality wood is used to make fine furniture. With its small leaves, pretty exfoliating grey and orange bark, and handsome fall colour, Japanese zelkova is a favourite subject for bonsai.