The Zelkova, Asian elm (Zelkova serrata) is a tree closely related to the native european elms. Its distribution area is Japan, Korea, East China and Taiwan. There it is a very popular park and temple tree. It grows only sporadically, but is cultivated for its valuable wood. In Europe, the zelkova grows in temperate climates and is valued as a decorative, urban-climate resistant and hardy park tree. The wood of the Zelkova is medium hard, medium heavy and very durable. It is used for various applications, being an essential part of Japanese bow making. The wood of the zelkova is also highly valued for making furniture, sculptures and other works of art In Japan. In Korea, as early as the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910), this wood was used to make occasional furniture, medicine cabinets, cupboards, chests, tables and handicraft items.
