Zelkova serrata 'Kiwi Sunset'PBR

RHS Plant Profile
Japanese zelkova 'Kiwi Sunset'
Japanese zelkova 'Kiwi Sunset' RHS / Joanna Kossak
Trees

A vigorous, umbrella-shaped deciduous tree with serrated-edge leaves. Foliage emerges pinkish-green, then changes to lime-green. pale green then finally to bright red during the autumn. Attractive, grey, flaky bark appears on the trunk during the autumn and winter months. Insignificant green flowers appear in the spring. An ideal variety for attractive all-year round interest, and best suited to large gardens or parks

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ulmaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in deep, fertile, moist soil and protect from cold, drying winds

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings from young plants in summer or by grafting in winter. Alternatively, propagate by seed (sown outdoors) in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to horse chestnut scale insects

Diseases

May be susceptible to Dutch elm disease, bacterial canker and honey fungus (rarely)