Caucasian zelkova
zelkova carpinifolia
Also known as: ["Caucasian elm","Caucasian zelkova"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to the Caucasus region, valued for its attractive foliage and resilience.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Genus: | Zelkova |
| Botanical Name: | Zelkova carpinifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor landscape, adaptable to urban environments
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; adjust for seasonal changes.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; semi-hardwood cuttings are most reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is developing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the tree, remove dead/diseased branches, encourage healthy growth; prune to maintain desired form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased wood, shape canopy, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water well.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; can lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced vigor; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use correct dilution, apply evenly, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicZelkova carpinifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicZelkova carpinifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicZelkova carpinifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Zelkova carpinifolia suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of urban conditions, including pollution and compacted soil.
Q: How fast does Zelkova carpinifolia grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining 1–2 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Q: Does this tree require regular pruning?
A: Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and remove deadwood, but it is not overly demanding.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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