Ulmus davidiana pygmaea cool soil and glossy compound leaves

and glossy compound leaves

A massed planting in Tokachi Millennium Forest caught my eye (I haven't been there unfortunately)

These crowns benefit from resting on a gritty or stony surface in a free draining area like your alpine rock garden

Plants from anywhere

Crown imperials are easy to keep and are long lived in the right spot

Ulmus davidiana pygmaea cool soil and glossy compound leavesTiny and special a miniature elm. A tiny version of the deciduous elm. After 30 years a knarly stem and small miniature tree is a delight in a pot, trough or the rock garden. Easy. 3 years old, 3cm tall and wide approx. Almost evergreen.