SafePlants

Ginkgo biloba: The Maidenhair Tree

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is a unique and ancient species with a rich history and intriguing characteristics. It stands as a living link to the past, offering a glimpse into the world of plants that existed millions of years ago.

Considerations for Pets

• While not explicitly stated as toxic, the text mentions that Ginkgo seeds are used in herbal tonics. As a precaution, ingestion of large quantities should be avoided.

Considerations for Children

• While not explicitly stated as toxic, the text mentions that Ginkgo seeds are used in herbal tonics. As a precaution, ingestion of large quantities should be avoided.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ginkgo biloba L.
• Common Names: Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree, Gingko, Ginko
• Family: Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family)
• Division: Ginkgophyta
• Synonym: Salisburia adiantifolia

Distribution and Habitat

• The maidenhair tree's natural distribution is now restricted to a few parts of the world, with wild populations apparently confined to Xitianmu Mt., Zhejiang, China.
• It was first found by Europeans in Japan.
• Widely planted as an ornamental tree, especially in urban environments.
• Common in temple and shrine grounds, particularly in Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A large, deciduous tree, growing up to 30 meters (approximately 98 feet) tall and 9 meters (approximately 29 feet) wide.
• Can reach 40 to 80 feet tall and 30 to 40 feet wide.
• Has a narrow or conical habit.
• Grows at a slow rate, only about a foot per year when young.
• Leaves are fan-shaped, resembling the leaflets of maidenhair ferns.
• Leaves turn a striking butter yellow color in the fall.
• Considered a medium-texture tree, rather coarse in winter.
• Young trees are often very open but fill in with age.
• It is hardy to zone (UK) 4.
• It is in flower from Apr to May, and the seeds ripen.

Ecological Role

• Known for its unique survival history and how it affects the environment.
• Tolerant of adverse growing conditions, pollution, and many soil types.
• Practically pest-free and resistant to storm damage.
• Casts light to moderate shade.

Quirky Facts

• The maidenhair tree is considered a "living fossil" because it has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.
• It is the only living species in the division Ginkgophyta.
• The leaves are said to resemble those of the maidenhair fern, hence the common name.
• One of the oldest trees at Kew Gardens dates back to 1762.
• The oldest ginkgo tree of Merano was marked as a five meter tree in 1875.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Resistant to pests and diseases.

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): Find help and information on Ginkgo biloba.
• ARKive: Amazing Maidenhair tree photos and facts.
• Eden Project: Detailed photos of Ginkgo biloba.