This deciduous tree has a short thick trunk with flaky grey-brown bark and arching, spreading branches forming a rounded crown. The dark green toothed oblong leaves turn orange-red in autumn and the insignificant green flowers appear in spring.

Hardiness zones 3 to 10 

Zelkova serrata is naturally found from Japan to Korea and Taiwan growing in woodlands in well drained but moist fertile soils in a sunny to partly shaded position and is drought tender but frost tolerant.

The Japanese Zelkova is grown for its habit, autumn colour and its timber. It is planted in parks and large gardens as a lawn specimen or street tree and is used for shade in lawn areas or for colour contrast. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is planted in forests tolerating cold-mountain and inland regions. ID 1749

Note:
When young the bark is greyish and smooth becoming flaky and peals to reveal orange patches.
The fine-grained timber is used for cabinet making or furniture, also this durable timber is excellent for arches and posts and is widely used in Japan. 

It has several syn. names Zelkova keaki, Zelkova acuminata, Zelkova cuspidata and Planera Japonica.

Zelkova (zel-KO-va) serrata (se-RAH-ta)

Ulmaceae (ulm-AY-see-ee)
Elm Family