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Champion tree
This is one of the most special trees in Fulham Cemetery
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Also called Japanese elm or keyaki, this large tree with its distinctive saw-toothed leaves is in the north of the cemetery, with a mysterious plaque dedicated to one Spider Baker. A mini forest of new trees have grown up from its roots. From aerial photos, it appears to have been planted during the 1950s.
There is another, smaller, specimen not far from this one, in Section 2 near the war plot, planted during the 1980s.
Keyaki wood is valued in Japan and used often for furniture, as well as being considered the ideal wood for the creation of taiko drums. The city of Sendai is called the "City of Trees" for the many zelkova trees lining its streets.
In Korea, Zelkova serrata has been considered a symbol of protection for villages since ancient times, and can still be found planted at central points in cities, towns and villages around the country. Some are over 1,000 years old.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zelkova_serrata
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19206/zelkova-serrata/details
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The Fulham Cemetery Friends added this tree tag to help visitors learn about the cemetery’s interesting trees.
Feedback or suggestions? [email protected]
See also: How to identify trees [Trees Guide UK]
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