User282
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What type of bonsai tree is this?

Hi there,
So I have got my first bonsai tree today called zelkova (although it doesn’t look like one) I was hoping someone could tell me what type this is and how to take care of it

Thanks
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MoonShadows
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Location: Stroudsburg, PA - Zone 6a

Nice looking tree. I did a Google search. From the look of the trunk and shape of the leaves, I think it may be a chinese elm.
bonsai_12510p25_4-600_600.jpg

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rainbowgardener
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Location: TN/GA 7b

Chinese elm and Zelcova are very similar trees; the Chinese elm leaves are smaller . To complicate it further, Chinese elms are sometimes sold as Zelcovas, to avoid import restrictions. I don't believe there are any care differences between them, so the label is somewhat academic.

fromlawntofood
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Location: Alabama

It's a beautiful bonsai. I wonder how long it takes to grow them to that size and fullness?

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rainbowgardener
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It looks pretty healthy. To my eyes a bit over-styled. My take on the art of bonsai is to create a tree that looks like an old weathered tree in nature but miniaturized. Did you ever see a natural tree with two complete S curves?

Here's an example of a Zelcova with a lot of curve to it, but a bit less extreme, more natural looking:

Image

Since you just got your tree, your task right now is just to learn your tree and learn how to keep it alive and healthy in its tiny pot in your conditions. Sometime next year you might want to thin it a bit, reduce some of the twigginess.



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