Trees
Zelkova serrata 'Green Vase'
Green Vase Japanese zelkova
Upright, arching branches form a graceful vase-shaped canopy. Fine-textured green leaves produce dappled shade before changing to orange in autumn. This vigorous selection makes a substantial shade tree; give its crown room to expand while preserving the natural branching outline.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun
- Size
- Height: 44 ft. · Width: 30 ft.
- Water
- Moderately moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zone 5 minimum
Sizes & prices
- #35$399.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Landscape use & tree form
- Form
- Vase with upright arching branches
- Use
- Shade tree; ornamental specimen
- Growth rate
- Moderate to fast species-level rate
- Fruit / litter
- Small inconspicuous dry fruits; seasonal leaves.
- Major issues
- Tight branch attachments can require structural pruning; generally resistant to Dutch elm disease.
Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Growers list resistance, but extension species guidance differs; browsing remains possible.
- Drought
- Species tolerates dry periods once established.
- Wet soil
- Requires drainage; avoid persistently wet sites.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Fall color
- Orange
Growing & care
- Pruning
- Train a strong central framework and widely spaced main branches while young; inspect tight branch unions.
- Soil
- Moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogged ground.
Sources & photo credits
University of Minnesota Extension
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image notes: Green Vase Japanese zelkova autumn foliage photographed by David J. Stang; resized from the original under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.