Ginkgo biloba

Recognised as the national tree of China and cherished by landscapes globally, this tree stands out in botanical history. Although it sheds its leaves, it holds a distinct status as conifer, tracing its lineage back to a staggering 270 million years to the Jurassic period.

Its iconic fan shaped leaves showcases two primary veins that gracefully spread out to its edges. Some leaves further split down their centre, creating a slight division. The term ‘biloba’ stems from ‘bis’, meaning two and ‘loda’ alluding to the split nature of these leaves. This unique leaf structure draws parallels to the Adiantum capillus-veneris, commonly known as the maidenhair fern, which inspires its common name.

Come autumn the Ginkgo captivates with its radiant gold and saffron-yellow foliage. When lined along streets and matured, its golden leaf cascade transforms mundane pathways into internationally acclaimed boulevards. Once fallen, as leaves decompose, they emit a strong distinct scent.

The female Ginkgo bears fruit that descends during autumn. Highly valued in Asia, these fruits are a key ingredient in the vegetarian dish, Buddhas delight. Identifying the trees gender remains a challenge until it reaches maturity. Intriguingly, if grafted, a male tree might transition to female,. However, our Ginkgos, cultivated from seedlings, offer a better chance if they are of the male variety, to remain so without bearing fruit.