- Size:
Height: 40-60'; Spread: 50-70'
- Growth:
Fast
- Character:
Semideciduous; spreading form with weeping limbs; dense canopy.
- Foliage:
Dark green, serrated, oval leaves 1-2" long. Fall foliage is yellow or reddish purple. In cold winters, tree can lose leaves December-February. Tree is usually never fully bare in San Francisco.
- Flower:
Insignificant flowers. Brown, winged fruit, 1/2" long, forms in fall and drops.
- Fruit:
Brown, winged fruit, 1/2" long, forms in fall and drops.
- Bark:
Mottled, light gray-brown trunk.
- Watering:
In general, 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
- Tree Care:
High. Early pruning to establish and maintain a central leader and to develop good branch structure.
- Tolerance:
Drought (once established), poor drainage, any soil.
- Special Considerations:
Prefers sun. Does not tolerate strong winds. Subject to anthracnose.
- Notable Traits:
Native to China, Korea, and Japan. Willow-like form with lacy foliage and attractive bark. Resists pests and diseases, including Dutch elm disease. Quickly creates shady canopies. 'Drake' resists anthracnose better than other Chinese Elms.