The Zelkova, or Japanese Zelkova, is an attractive exotic tree that captivates with its impressive autumn colors in a wide variety of shades ranging from yellow to orange to bronze. It is rarely used in our latitudes and is primarily planted as a park tree and in prestigious locations. Even in its native habitat, the Zelkova is only found sporadically, but is used for forestry purposes due to its valuable heartwood.

• Origin: East Asia, Japan, Taiwan

• Growth: 15 to 30 meters

• Leaves: Oval to elongated and pointed, 3–12 cm long, serrated, rich green and rough on top, lighter and smooth underneath, copper-colored to yellow-orange in autumn

• Flower: April/May, inconspicuous green

• Fruit: small bean-shaped, stone fruit, smooth, green, inconspicuous, no ornamental value

• Soil/location: fresh, humus-rich, sandy-loamy soil, sunny to semi-shaded, good for solitary planting or in small groups

• Special feature: There is only one specimen in Mainz City Park. However, it impresses with its imposing habit. Even though the tree is already at an advanced age, it exudes an almost sublime feeling with its compact crown and solitary position on the northern main path, parallel to the railway tracks. It is worth taking a closer look. The heavily scaled bark of the Zelkova is beautiful.
  The Mainz Zelkova is listed in the German Dendrological (opens in a new tab)Society's "Champion Trees" as the record holder for Rhineland-Palatinate. Nationwide, it ranks among the "Top 5" largest known Zelkovas.