Maidenhair Tree

(Ginkgo biloba)

Maidenhair Tree (Ginkgo biloba)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as Maidenhair Tree, is a deciduous tree native to China, specifically from valleys in the Zhejiang province. It is considered a living fossil, with no close living relatives, and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. Ginkgos can reach a height of 20–35 m (66–115 ft), with some ancient specimens in China over 50 m (165 ft). The tree has a unique form, with an angular crown and erratic branches in youth, becoming broader with age. It is deep-rooted, which contributes to its resistance to wind and snow damage.

The Maidenhair Tree is valued for its resilience in urban environments, its unique leaf shape, and its bright yellow fall foliage. It is often planted as a street tree or in parks due to its high tolerance to pollution and confined soil spaces. Ginkgo biloba is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees, with the female trees producing a fruit-like seed that can emit an unpleasant odor when it falls and decays. Therefore, male cultivars are usually preferred for urban planting. The tree requires full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate a range of soil conditions, from acidic to alkaline, as long as there is adequate drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 50-80 feet
  • Width: 30-40 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Valleys in the Zhejiang province of China

Other Names

Common Names: Ginkgo , Maidenhair-Tree , Common Ginkgo , Ginkgobaum , Ginkgo Biloba , Noyer Du Japon , Nogueira-Do-Japão , 은행나무 , 銀杏 , Yin Xing

Scientific Names: Ginkgo biloba , Ginkgo biloba f. fastigiata , Ginkgo biloba subsp. fastigiata , Ginkgo biloba var. fastigiata , Salisburia adiantifolia , Ginkgo biloba f. pendula , Ginkgo biloba var. variegata , Ginkgo biloba f. adiantifolia , Ginkgo biloba f. aurea , Ginkgo biloba f. laciniata

GBIF Accepted Name: Ginkgo biloba L.