How to Identify the Japanese Zelkova

Leaf Identification

The leaves of the Japanese Zelkova are 2″ to 5″ long with very serrated margins and pinnate veins that sometimes split off in pairs toward the leaf margins. They are a medium green with a pale green underside and turn yellow or red in the fall.

  • Leaf of Arbor Walk #59
  • Underside of Leaf from Arbor Walk #59
  • Leaf (Fall) of Arbor Walk #59

Twig and Bud Identification

The twig is golden brown and slightly zig zag.

  • Twig of Arbor Walk #59

Bark Identification

The Japanese Zelkova has gray bark with irregularly shaped scales that do not peel but can flake off.

  • Bark of Arbor Walk #59

Fruit Identification

The fruits are small, ovoid drupes. They are not showy or particularly attractive. They ripen in the fall.

[photo forthcoming]

Flower Identification

The flowers of the Japanese Zelkova are green and inconspicuous. They bloom in the spring.

[photo forthcoming]