Zelkova serrata (Japanese Grey Bark Elm) seeds

Fantastic tree for autumn colour with sharply-toothed, finely-pointed foliage turning many shades of yellow and orange in autumn. A Bonsai classic, remarkable for how well it mimics its full grown shape in miniature. Easy to grow from seed and fully hardy when mature. Will need frost protection for the first couple of winters.

Winner of the RHS Award of Garden Merit

Hardy Tree
Height: 5m if not pruned
Position: Sun

Packet of 20 seeds

RHS Award of Garden Merit

This plant/cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. For more information on RHS award of Garden Merit plants visit rhs.org.uk/plants

GROWING GUIDE

Pre-sowing Treatment: Soak the seeds in water which starts off hand hot for 24 hours.

Sowing Instructions: Sow at any time of the year. Sow thinly in pots or trays of moist seed compost, eg John Innes, and cover lightly. Seal pots in a polythene bag and place in the fridge for 4 weeks. After this, move to a propagator or other warm place and maintain an optimum temperature of 15-21C. Germination can be erratic but should take place in 1-3 months.

Growing Instructions: Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm pots. The little trees are best grown on for a year or two in pots and protected from frost for at least the first winter. Care should also be taken to protect them from late spring frosts which can be very damaging. Plant out once established in a sunny position.