Japanese Elm

Zelkova serrata is a tree species in the Ulmaceae family, native to Japan, Korea, eastern China, and Taiwan. It is widely grown as an ornamental and is used in bonsai. The species is divided into two varieties. Zelkova serrata var. serrata occurs in Japan and mainland eastern Asia, while Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis is found only in Taiwan. The latter is distinguished by its smaller leaves and less deeply serrated leaf margins. The species has a broad distribution, including regions in Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia, and is present in botanical gardens such as the Jardín Botánico de Bogotá.