This tree, usually growing to 30m (98 ft) tall, is characterized by its short trunk dividing into many upright and erect spreading stems forming a broad, rounded head. Zelkova Serrata grows rapidly when young and develops medium green leaves that turn to shades of yellow, orange, brown, deep red to reddish-purple in the autumn. In spring, it produces yellow-green flowers in tight groups along new stems.

Zelkova Serrata will require some pruning to develop a strong structure, making its short trunk and shady canopy ideal for lawn, shade, street and urban planting.