Species Chinese elm
green foliage on lime stems

Chinese elm

Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju'

Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju') is a deciduous tree that is grown in many countries for its beautiful foliage and strong structure. It is drought tolerant and grows up to 50 feet tall. The bright green leaves are small and oval and turn yellow in the fall. Its branches have a slightly weeping habit that gives it a graceful look. Its bark is grey-brown and deeply furrowed. Chinese elm is an ideal tree for large gardens, parks, and streets as it can withstand difficult conditions. It is very popular as a bonsai tree due to its stunning form and structure. The Chinese elm is an easy to grow tree making it a desirable choice for gardeners and landscapers.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Reddish Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Chinese elm trees need to be watered once a week. During the summer months, it is recommended that you water your tree deeply but not too frequently; 10-20 liters (2.5-5 gallons) of water is usually sufficient. During the winter, water your Chinese elm less frequently as it enters its dormant phase. Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch; 1-2 liters (0.25-0.5 gallons) of water will do.

sunlight

Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju') should be planted in an area that receives full sunlight for at least 6 hours per day in order to be healthy and thrive. The best time for the Chinese elm to receive sunlight is early morning to mid-afternoon. During summer, it should receive direct sunlight throughout the full day, while during winter, it should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight.

pruning

Chinese elm trees (Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, while the tree is in a state of dormancy. It is beneficial to remove any dead, weak, crossing, or damaged branches in order to keep the tree healthy. Shorten the remaining branches to increase air circulation. Pruning in this way will also help to create a balanced structure for the tree. Avoid pruning too vigorously, since this can weaken or damage your tree. If severely pruning, it is best to do this over a few years rather than removing too much at once.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Chinese elm typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in April or May.

Hardiness Map