Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba)

Family: Ginkgoaceae

Ginkgo is an ancient plant, well preserved in fossils dating back to 270 million years ago. Now wild Ginkgo plants are found only in a few small populations in China. It is an attractive deciduous tree that is easy to grow in temperate regions worldwide. Surprisingly tolerant of urban growing conditions, it is a popular street tree in many cities. The graceful, fan-like leaves turn golden-yellow in the autumn. The species is dioecious (with separate male and female trees), and the male trees are usually preferred in the landscape. Female trees are associated with an unpleasant odor that comes from the outer layer of the seeds. However, female trees are sometimes grown for commercial production of seeds, which are used in herbal medicine.

Tags:

autumn color, herbal medicine, ornamental, smelly, sun, tree
Cultivation: Medium-sized to large tree for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. Grows best in full sun with moderate moisture.

Size: Reaches 50' to 80' (15 m to 24 m) tall with a spread of 20' to 40' (6 m to 12 m).

Propagation methods: cuttings, seeds.