Zelkova abelicea

RHS Plant Profile
Cretan zelkova

Synonyms

Zelkova cretica

Shrubs

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ulmaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
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

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to horse chestnut scale insects

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)