Seiju Elm (Ulmus parvifolia 'Seiju')
 
Seiju is a true dwarf cultivar of Chinese elm, known for its very small leaves, tight internodes, and fast ramification. It’s one of the most popular elm varieties for bonsai, offering the rugged bark and toughness of Chinese elm in a more compact, easier-to-manage package.
 
As a Bonsai:
Seiju is nearly ideal for bonsai—the leaves are tiny even without reduction, and it responds quickly to pruning, making it easy to build structure and ramification. It also develops corky bark relatively young, adding aged character early in training. Suitable for a wide range of bonsai styles and forgiving enough for beginners.
 
📢 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: 5–9 (cold-hardy and requires winter dormancy)
Growth Habit: Dwarf, upright to spreading with dense branching
Mature Size: Typically 4–8 ft in the landscape; much smaller in bonsai
Foliage: Very small, serrated green leaves; excellent for miniature bonsai
Bark: Develops corky, textured bark at a young age
Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-draining, adaptable to a range of soils
Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but is fairly drought tolerant once established
Pests/Disease: Generally resilient; much more resistant to Dutch elm disease than native species
Special Features: Tiny leaves, fast ramification, corky bark, forgiving and beginner-friendly