Gingko - (Gingko biloba

Gingko – (Gingko biloba)

The Gingko tree (Gingko biloba), also known as the Maidenhair tree, is one of the most remarkable species still standing today. Often called a “living fossil”, it has a history that stretches back more than 200 million years, making it one of the oldest surviving species on Earth. Originally from China, it has become a favourite in cities around the world for its beauty and resiliency.

Gingkoes are large, slow-growing trees that typically reach 50 to 80 feet tall with a spread of 3- to 40 feet. Their distinctive fan-shaped leaves are bright green through summer and turn a brilliant golden yellow in the fall, making it a striking feature in any landscape. The bark is grey and rough, becoming more deeply furrowed with age.

What makes the Gingko so valued in modern cities is its resilience. It tolerates heat, drought, road salt, compacted soils and pollution, thriving where many other trees struggle. It also transplants well, has very few pest or disease problems and requires little maintenance once established. These qualities make it one of the most reliable choices for urban planting.

Gingkoes are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees. Male trees are usually preferred for planting because the female trees produce seeds covered in a fleshy outer layer that can emit a strong odor when the drop.

The Gingkoes reputation for toughness is legendary. Six specimens famously survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and are still alive today. While it’s now widely planted, the species is considered endangered in the wild, with natural populations surviving only in small areas of China.

With its ancient history, graceful form, and incredible hardiness, the gingko continues to be one of the most celebrated trees in the world. It’s both a symbol of endurance and a practical choice for modern landscapes, proving that some of the oldest species on Earth can thrive in the heart of our cities.