Hokkaido Elm (Ulmus parvifolia 'Hokkaido')
 
Hokkaido is a truly tiny-leaved Chinese elm cultivar, known for its extremely slow growth, knobby bark, and quirky, gnarled appearance. Among the smallest of all elm varieties, it’s a favorite for mame and shohin bonsai—not because it’s easy, but because it’s weird in all the right ways.
 
As a Bonsai:
Hokkaido is challenging but rewarding. It branches slowly and tends to throw out stubby, awkward twigs that need coaxing into structure, but its ultra-small leaves and bumpy, corky bark make it look ancient even at a young age. Best for patient growers looking to create compact, high-character trees.
 
📢 This is a cold-hardy species—it requires a winter dormancy and should be kept outside year-round. In locations with extreme cold, we recommend placing it on the ground, mulching around the pot, and protecting it from wind.
 
Plant Features:
Hardiness Zone: 4–9 (cold-hardy and requires winter dormancy)
Growth Habit: Extremely slow-growing; upright, twiggy, and dense
Mature Size: 2–3 ft over many years; stays miniature even in landscape
Foliage: Tiny, rounded green leaves—among the smallest of any elm
Bark: Thick, knobby, and corky even at a young age
Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-draining; adaptable to most bonsai mixes
Water Needs: Moderate; enjoys even moisture, dislikes long dry spells
Pests/Disease: Very resilient and resistant to Dutch elm disease
Special Features: Miniature foliage, gnarled bark, ideal for tiny bonsai styles like mame or shohin