Zelkova serrata
Japanese zelkova

Considered to be resistant to Dutch elm disease, it is possible but not commonly bothered by this disease. It also resists the elm leaf beetle and in central Illinois has not been bothered by Japanese beetles.

Usage: The arching habit of this species is especially effective when used in multiple plants to produce the cathedral-window effect that was once the hallmark of the American elm on most of America's streets. It is an interesting and useful tree however its lack of winter hardiness limits it use in the upper Midwest. In the central Illinois area, we are able to grow this species reasonably well if not sited too extreme. It makes an effective street tree or large shade tree for residential sites and parks. Some of the better and more cold-hardy forms include 'Green Vase', 'Halka' and 'Village Green'. For slightly milder winters, 'Spring Grove', originating at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati Ohio is an excellent selection, with the parent plant towering at about 80' with a good purplish red fall color.