Chinese Zelkova (Zelkova sinica) is a deciduous tree known for its vase-shaped habit and attractive bark, often used as a shade or ornamental tree.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when topsoil is dry, maintain consistent moisture, reduce in winter.
Well-drained soil
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C during the growing season. Tolerates cooler temperatures in winter.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce in fall/winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Chinese Zelkova prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate brief dry spells. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage in the pot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the tree and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Summer pruning can be done to control size and encourage denser branching.
Zelkova responds well to shaping and can be trained into various forms.
Chinese Zelkova can be propagated by seeds sown in autumn or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds require a period of cold stratification before germination.
Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining medium.
Young trees benefit from repotting every 2-3 years in early spring. Mature trees can be repotted every 3-5 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Trim some of the roots during repotting to encourage finer root growth and manage the tree's size.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Zelkova (Zelkova sinica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Zelkova |
| Species | Zelkova sinica |
Similar in genus Zelkova
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
