Zelkova carpinifolia
Caucasian-elm · Caucasian Zelkova
Description
Source: leafsnapZelkova carpinifolia, commonly known as the Caucasian elm or Caucasian zelkova, is a deciduous tree native to the Caucasus region of Eurasia. As a member of the Ulmaceae family, it can grow up to 30 meters tall, featuring a broad crown and smooth gray bark. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate with serrated edges, turning yellow in autumn before falling. In spring, the tree produces small greenish-yellow flowers, which are followed by small winged fruits that ripen in autumn. The wood of Zelkova carpinifolia is hard and durable, making it valuable for furniture making. Zelkova carpinifolia prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate some soil moisture and urban pollution, making it an excellent choice for urban landscaping projects. It also has good resistance to pests and diseases. In its native range, Zelkova carpinifolia has been used for medicinal purposes, such as treating respiratory ailments, and its bark has been utilized for tanning leather. Overall, Zelkova carpinifolia is an attractive ornamental tree that provides shade and is valuable in various industries, particularly in furniture-making due to its hardy wood properties.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
The Caucasian elm thrives in moderate climates with consistent moisture. To keep the soil evenly moist without causing waterlogging, water the plant twice a week. Once established, it can tolerate moderate drought. This tree is best suited for outdoor cultivation, where it can benefit from seasonal rainfall during its active growing season.
☀️ Light Full sun
The Caucasian elm is native to open habitats, such as sunlit meadows and forest edges, which provide abundant light. It grows best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to different sunlight conditions.
What are the sunlight requirements for a Caucasian elm (Zelkova carpinifolia)?
The Caucasian elm (Zelkova carpinifolia) requires full sun, meaning it needs above 6 hours of sunlight daily. It's essential to observe how sunlight moves through your garden throughout the day. Choosing locations that offer a perfect balance of light and shade will ensure that your plants remain happy and healthy.
🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C
Caucasian elm shows strong adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions, from blazing summers to severe winters. Nonetheless, it has a preferred temperature band for growth. When temperatures climb too high, the plant can suffer from heat and humidity stress, which may lead to its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower edge of its cold tolerance, insulating measures should be taken to protect the plant.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to your Caucasian elm in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Consistent feeding improves overall health, resulting in vigorous growth, greater tolerance of difficult conditions, and increased resistance to pests and diseases. Follow a specific fertilizing schedule for your Caucasian elm to keep the foliage vibrant with deep color and a lush appearance.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
The Caucasian elm is known for its attractive bark and serrated leaves. To maintain its health and appearance, it's important to prune the tree in early spring. This allows you to remove any dead branches and improve air circulation. To ensure a balanced shape, trim back long branches using clean tools. This not only promotes the tree's health and growth but also helps reduce pest issues and enhances the tree’s overall appearance.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Zelkova
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-8
- Mature Height
- 29.87 m
- Mature Spread
- 24.99 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Orange, Brown
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Green
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Turkey, Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan