Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo biloba (Maidenhair tree) is an historic tree. It is extinct in the wild but worldwide preserved in temples, parks and large gardens. This tree is native to China and it is found in fossils dating back 270 million years.

Ginkgo biloba is an upright tree that looks splendid in autumn. The fan-shaped leaves grow in light green in Spring to turn golden yellow in fall. It is a truly delight to enjoy the view of a fully grown Ginkgo tree in autumn.

Plant profile

They produce a yellow plum-like fruit with a very very unpleasant smell. When planted in city streets, Ginkgos are usually male specimens so they don’t produce the fruits with the horrific smell. The fruit falls in autumn and has an edible nut (3cm).

Ginkgo biloba (Maidenhair tree) fruits

Propagation

Ginkgo biloba is easily propagated by seed. Simply sow the seeds in trays or pots with well drained soil as soon as they fall from the tree. It can also be propagated by semi-hardwood cutting.

Pests and diseases

Maidenhair tree is trouble free. More, their leaves are used in Asia to produce a natural fluid that is sprayed over other cultures in order to protect them against pests.

Ginkgo biloba tolerates air pollution and is a great tree to plant in cities.