Zelkova abelicea
Cretan zelkova
A rare, deciduous shrub to small tree, eventually reaching 4m (13ft) high by as much across. small oval, mid-green leaves, crenulated at their margins, are produced on reddish-brown stems. Tiny, white, scented flowers are borne in short panicles in late spring, followed by winged seeds. Of Cretan origin, this shrub prefers a sheltered spot in warmer gardens to do well. Its relatively small size means it is a good choice for urban city gardens, where spece is limited and the temperatures are likley to be warmer than in more rural, or northerly locations
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red Bronze | White | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Bronze | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red Bronze | Orange Red | ||
| Winter | Red Bronze |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Genus
Zelkova are large deciduous trees or shrubs with neatly serrate, ovate leaves and inconspicuous flowers and fruit; good autumn colour
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Crete
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in any well-drained soil in a warm, sheltered position and full sun
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings from young plants in summer, grafting in winter. Propagate from seed (tree/shrub) sown outdoors in autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to horse chestnut scale insects
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)
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