Ulmus parvifolia Seijuv

The Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju' is a dwarf variety of Chinese elm with bonsai-like features, perfectly suited for small spaces and container gardening, especially on an urban patio. This small deciduous tree captivates with its irregular globular habit, bark, and well-furnished small leaves that change colour in autumn. Quite resistant to Dutch elm disease, it can be easily grown in any well-drained soil, even slightly chalky and dry.

The Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju', discovered in 1975, originated from a spontaneous mutation of a branch from the 'Hokkaido' variety, differing from it by having larger leaves. This small tree belongs, like all elms, to the Ulmaceae family. The typical species, Ulmus parvifolia or U. chinensis, is native to Asia, particularly Japan and China. It is an elm appreciated for its adaptability, ease of cultivation, and resistance to pollution, heat, diseases, and pests. Inexperienced bonsai enthusiasts often choose it as a starter tree, provided it can be protected from severe winter frosts.

The Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju' demonstrates slow growth, rarely exceeding 2.50 m (8ft) in height and 3 m (10ft) in width at maturity. It has a more or less wide habit, with a slightly irregular, rounded, or even slightly spreading crown. It forms one or several short trunks with highly branched branches. Its bark is truly interesting from a young age: light grey peels off in patches, revealing an orange "new skin". Large lenticels form here and there, especially around wounds. The young twigs are shiny, brown, and hairy, quickly becoming glossy. The leaves of this 'Seiju' elm measure between 5 and 8 mm (1in) in length; they are thick, ovate, and finely toothed, with a shiny dark green colour arranged regularly on the branches. They are semi-evergreen: they fall off in winter if it is very cold but can remain evergreen in milder climates. In late autumn, the foliage sometimes takes on a yellow-orange tint under the effect of cold. In the ground, the 'Seiju' Chinese elm can withstand temperatures down to -12 °C (10.4°F) once well-established.

The Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju' will particularly interest bonsai enthusiasts and urban gardeners. It will blend well with other unusual plants, such as twisted trees and shrubs.