Leaf Color Range Once considered as a replacement for the diseased American elm (to which it is related). The zelkova can be found throughout the city’s parks and streets. There are many recent plantings in the downtown business district. This tree has a short trunk with distinctive upward branches and the bark on older trees has a camouflage look Height: 70’ Leaves: In 2 rows, 1”-3-1/2” long, 3/4”-1-3/4” wide. Alternate, simple. Oval or elliptical. Dark green and rough above, paler and usually hairless beneath, turning yellow to reddish yellow in autumn. Habitat: In moist soils in humid warm regions. It is planted throughout the United States. Native to Japan.