Crystal size of H-ZSM-5 is regulated by adding proper amount of silicalite-1 seeds. Zn state and catalytic performance of Zn/H-ZSM-5 are related to the crystal size. Overall acidity of H-ZSM-5 and Zn/H-ZSM-5 is less influenced by the crystal size. Linear correlation lies between the amount of ZnOH+ and selectivity to aromatics. Small crystal Zn/H-ZSM-5 with more ZnOH+ exhibits high selectivity to aromatics.