Ginkgo biloba – Maidenhair tree – Sensational golden autumnal colours

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or gingko, also known as the maidenhair tree, is the only living species in the division Ginkgophyta, all others being extinct. It is found in fossils dating back 270 million years.

Often know as the ‘living fossil tree’, fossil records show that species closely related to today’s Gingko have existed for over 200 million years across Europe. Ginkgo biloba is the national tree of China and some specimens planted in temples are claimed to be over 2,500 years old.
Interestingly, Ginkgo biloba is neither a broadleaf or a conifer and has its own division, Ginkgophyta.
Bright green, fan shaped leaves emerge in Spring and later they turn brilliant yellow giving a beautiful Autumn show.

It has a resistance to pests, diseases, pollution and many soil conditions making it an excellent specimen for urban environment.
In Japanese decorative art, the ginkgo’s distinctive fan-shaped leaf has carried symbolism along with its singular beauty: the ginkgo has been a symbol of longevity (the tree can live for a thousand years) and of a more profound endurance

The rectangular pot in soft cream is very pretty and can be utilised for another bonsai.