Ginkgo

This unique plant is a native of China and is the last living species in the order Ginkgoales. The Ginkgo or Maidenhair tree is considered a living fossil and one of the oldest tree species. This tree is known for its unusual fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow/gold and pale gray bark in the fall. This tree is second to none in terms of yellow fall color, though the color can be short-lived. If you are looking for a tough tree that will withstand storms, poor soils, and is virtually pest-free, the Ginkgo is the tree for you. The one downside is that the Ginkgo is slow-growing to its maximum height of 75’ or so. Use this tree as a lawn tree or as a street tree. If you want to plant a ginkgo, be sure you purchase a male tree as the females have small round tan to orange fruit that has a truly noxious smell similar to dog poop. Any cultivars grown on the market now are males, so purchase a cultivar, not a seedling; the fruit is not eaten by wildlife, so avoid a female Ginkgo for use in any landscape. Several cultivars are on the market, including ‘Autumn Gold,’ ‘Fastigiata,’ ‘Princeton Sentry,’ and ‘Lakeview.’ If you have space for a tree to grow, want gorgeous fall color, and like a tough tree that will handle most conditions, consider planting a Ginkgo in your yard.

 

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu