We only sell freshly harvested seeds from small time growers, hobbyists and collectors.
Listing is for 10 Seeds
Zelkova serrata is a species of the genus Zelkova native to Japan, Korea, eastern China and Taiwan. It is often grown as an ornamental tree, and used in bonsai.
Japanese Grey-bark Elm is a tree originating from cool-climate areas of Western Asia to China and Japan.
In nature, it grows 90 to 100 feet tall with a 60 to 80 foot spread. Zelkova is massive, with the trunk capable of growing to four feet or more in diameter. Zelkova is suited to almost all bonsai styles. They are deciduous bonsai with small ovate, serrated, pointed leaves. Some even call them one of the best deciduous trees for bonsai. Although they are related to the elms, they do not encounter the same diseases and in many cases are being used as elm-substitutes. Leaves are 1.5 to 4 inches long, turning a brilliant yellow, orange, or burnt umber in the Fall. In Winter they produce small, greenish flowers that have a slight perfume. The Grey-bark Elm is usually shaped exclusively by pinching and pruning, but wire can be used. To reduce leaf size, healthy trees can be leaf pruned in early Summer. All of the leaves are removed, leaving only the leaf stems on the branches. The tree will respond by putting out a second set of leaves, smaller than the first set. The straight trunk and smooth bark of the Zelkova are other appealing characteristics, maturing from green to grey in colour. Be careful when wiring and handling Zelkovas, its branches are thin and fragile. Wiring should be done in the Summer. Japanese Zelkova are valued for many reasons but especially because there are many equally balanced branches.
Hardiness zones 5-8, (-26C/-15F,-10C/15F) in Winter.
Although reasonably frost hardy, they do prefer shelter from the elements. Make sure the tree has good Winter protection. Frost protection can include placement in darkened outhouses and garages as when out of leaf Zelkovas do not require light. During Summer in Southern part of USA, do not expose the tree to direct sun during the heat of the day. These plants need deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Plenty of water in the Summer is required. Never allow compost to dry out, keep the compost evenly moist, but only water when necessary. Spray the foliage with water daily during the Summer. Balanced feed weekly through Spring and Summer. Do not feed when out of leaf.
How to Grow
For faster germination, soak the seeds in slightly hot water for 24-48 hours, followed by 6 weeks of cold stratification before sowing in sterile gardening soil. Keep damp soil, not soaking wet. Keep pot in warm situation, 68-75F. Germination usually occurs in one to two months. It can be more depending on their degree of unbroken dormancy, don't give up.
Scarification / Stratification
This will break their dormancy. It creates a cold and moist environment for the seeds. Mixed in seeds with slightly moistened vermiculite or peat, only damp in a ziplock bag. Close zip bag shut and store it in the salad crisper compartment of your refrigerator. If any seeds begin to sprout during the cold stratification, simply remove the seed and plant.
Whimsy and Wonder proudly takes its place as a global leader in the realm of rare seeds, heirloom seeds, open-pollinated seeds, seeds for heirloom vegetables, hard-to-find seeds, and exotic seeds. Our reputation is built on a steadfast commitment to sourcing and distributing seeds of unparalleled quality. With a vast network that spans hobbyist growers, dedicated collectors, and seasoned professionals, we've meticulously curated an extensive inventory, unrivaled in its rarity and diversity, offering some of the planet's most elusive plant species.
Based in Canada, we've dedicated ourselves to serving plant enthusiasts in Canada, USA and worldwide with a promise of freshness and species authenticity. In an era where the online marketplace is rife with unscrupulous sellers peddling counterfeit seeds, we take our responsibility very seriously. Our stringent precautions and rigorous processes are designed to ensure the highest germination rates possible, setting us apart as a trusted source of rare seeds. We proudly offer Canada and worldwide shipping, extending our dedication to quality and authenticity to gardeners and growers around the globe, providing the assurance that your journey into the world of botanical whimsy and wonder begins with seeds you can trust.