ID please

[jimenezl]

I was sold this as a 'true' Zelkova at a show. I've had a few of them and their leaves, and especially the new growth as seen in the attached picture, was different. It's a nice tree but would like someone to ID it for me. Thanks

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

Almost looks like a hazel. I'm not good at ID'ing deciduous, mind you. So my best bet would be either japanese zelkova, or otherwise a hazel.

 

[jimenezl]

@Wires_Guy_wires , thanks for the reply. It just doesn't look like any Zelkova I've had. It was a little hectic at the show and should've paid more attention. At least it's healthy and thriving. Will start styling soon; freestyle, that is.

 

[atlarsenal]

The ribbed leaf looks like a hornbeam to me.

 

[penumbra]

It is similar to my hornbeams and even a bit like a hazel, but I truly believe it is Zelkova.

 

[jimenezl]

@atlarsenal and @penumbra, than you both for your replies. I guess it's not easy to get a definite answer. Here's a closer look at the leaves and bark, if that helps.

 

[atlarsenal]

Google “Korean hornbeam”

 

[penumbra]

Judging your new pictures I have to agree with atlarsenal. They are a hornbeam, and probably one of the two species of Korean Hornbeam. The leaves are not as narrow or as toothed as zelkova leaves. Bark looks very much like my Korean Hornbeams.

 

[jimenezl]

Shoot, got taken by some sneaky bonsai seller. I asked specifically if it was a Zelkova and he said yes, a true Zelkova (whatever that meant). I never had any luck w hornbeams in Maryland but maybe now in Florida it'll do better. Btw, I bought it at the BSF convention in orlando earlier this year.

 

[parhamr]

I have a few Chinese elm cultivars, one true Zelkova, and two Korean hornbeam. I’m certain this is a Hornbeam species.

Zelkova leaves point downward, have a different shape (more pointed), and aren’t quite this waxy in appearance before developing a cuticle.

Good luck! Hornbeam are great so long as they’re a fit for your particular climate and culture.

 

[grouper52]

I'd vote Hornbeam. In any event, it'll only thicken up into a decent bonsai if grown in the ground for a number of years. Growing in a pot - even a big pot - is almost always just an exercise in futility. Please see my tutorial in the resource section here, titled "The Importance of Starting with a Good Trunk." Hope that helps.

 

[jimenezl]

Thanks all. Question answered.

 

[penumbra]

Shoot, got taken by some sneaky bonsai seller. I asked specifically if it was a Zelkova and he said yes, a true Zelkova (whatever that meant). I never had any luck w hornbeams in Maryland but maybe now in Florida it'll do better. Btw, I bought it at the BSF convention in orlando earlier this year.

Funny you had problems in Maryland. I have 5 killer hornbeams that were grown in Maryland and they are 35 years old.