Japanese zelkova podcast script

The zelkova serrata, otherwise known as the Japanese zelkova is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 80 feet in height and its canopy can spread up to 60 feet in width. The healthy shade that comes with this grandeur size, accompanied by a dark green summer foliage and fiery autumn display makes the Japanese zelkova a very popular choice in landscaping. Planters will notice that the zelkova thrives in moist soil that has good drainage so that the roots are not heavily soaked. Partial to full sunlight is usually best for the zelkova, which is provided by climate zones 5-8. In the United States, this area includes but is not limited to the coastline of Washington and Oregon, Willamette Valley, Northern California and the Central Valley. In its native habitat, the zelkova grows in the lowlands and mountains of Japan and in the valleys of China. Although the zelkova has optimal growing environments, it is a very hardy tree and can survive in extreme conditions. For example, it is very much tolerant to high drought, pollution and even soil acidity.

Let’s take a closer look at the leaves of the Japanese zelkova. You’ll notice that by its nonparallel veins that this tree is a dicot. Furthermore, unlike the elm tree, which belongs to the same family, the base of the zelkova leaf is symmetrical. Every leaf contains serrated edges around its oval shape until they meet at a fine point at the tip. The leaves are arranged in alternate patterns along the branch, but during the winter, they all fall off, leaving the branches bare. In the spring time, small greenish flowers appear carrying a slight fragrance and if you look closely enough in the fall, there will be small black nutlets about 3 mm in diameter. These are the fruits of the Japanese zelkova. Now take a step back and you’ll see that all the branches begin at relatively the same low level on the trunk giving the entire tree a vase or goblet-like look. The trunk is relatively smooth and as the tree matures the coloration of the trunk will change from green to gray. The zelkova’s quality of growing upwards makes it, once again a favorite among landscapers, who may also use it as street tree because it does not get in the way of people or cars.

Although it is more widely known for its aesthetic uses, the zelkova is also cultivated for its wood. The beautiful grain and tough wood makes it an excellent choice for furniture. Other less documented uses include consuming the young leaves or using the flower for fragrance. This tree is also many times used as a bonsai plant, which is a potted tree, usually of a dwarfed species.

If you are ever considering for a large decorative shade tree, then I highly suggest you get a Japanese zelkova, though watch out, they’re risky to transplant in the fall!

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