Zelkova Tree

Pyongyang, September 19 (KCNA) -- In recent years, many Zelkova trees have been planted around dwellings in the countryside of the DPRK.

According to an expert, from olden times the Korean people have planted the tree with a large, magnificent and dense crown. Zelkova tree, peculiar to Korea, is called "longevity tree" as it grows long once planted. It is very good for greening as its branches grow straight and harmoniously spread.

The tree gives large shade and adds beauty to the landscape of street and village. It is resistant to harmful insects and hard in the quality of wood and beautiful in color and texture.

It is called a pavilion tree as it does not become leafless till late autumn. It is effective in landscaping and preventing air pollution. It does not need special trimming as it grows in a balanced way.

A nationwide demonstration was given in Ryongwon-ri, Kumya County of South Hamgyong Province, where many Zelkovas have been regularly planted on roadsides.

North and South Phyongan and South Hwanghae provinces and Nampho Municipality have planted Zelkovas around rural dwellings and in parks and on roadsides.

As the period of collecting Zelkova seeds is from late September to early October, various regions are stepping up the work to secure necessary amount of seeds and increase the production of saplings.

Scientific research institutes in the relevant field are concentrating their efforts on further perfecting a scientific cultivation method suited to the biological characteristics of the tree. -0-