Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Ginkgophyta, Class: Ginkgoopsida, Order: Ginkgoales, Family: Ginkgoaceae, Genus: Ginkgo, Species: Ginkgo biloba · Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family) · Simple; Deciduous (though technically a gymnosperm, it acts like a broadleaf deciduous tree)
Species
Ginkgo biloba
Leaf Type
Simple; Deciduous (though technically a gymnosperm, it acts like a broadleaf deciduous tree)
Family
Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family)
Shape
Fan-shaped (Flabellate), typically with a central notch or sinus that divides the leaf into two lobes (biloba)
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches long and 3-5 inches wide; the specimen in the image appears to be a mature, standard-sized leaf.
Margin
The outer margin is irregularly undulate or wavy, while the rest is entire and smooth with a distinct central notch.
Arrangement
Alternate, often appearing in clusters on short, spur-like woody shoots.
Rarity
Very Common as an ornamental/cultivated tree; Extinct in the wild across most of its prehistoric range.
Color & Pattern
Rich medium green on both surfaces. In autumn, the leaf will change to a uniform, brilliant golden-yellow before falling. There is no variegation present in this specimen.
Venation Pattern
Dichotomous venation (veins fork in pairs from the base to the margin), which is unique among modern seed plants.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and slightly leathery (coriaceous). The surface has a matte to semi-glossy finish without hairs.
Description
A 'living fossil' that has remained unchanged for over 200 million years. The tree is a large deciduous gymnosperm with a pyramidal crown that becomes irregular with age. It features unique fan-shaped leaves and produces male pollen cones or female fleshy seeds on separate trees (dioecious).
Key Features
Fan-shaped leaf with dichotomous venation; central notch creating two lobes; leaves growing from prominent woody spurs on branches.
Habitat
Widely adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun. It is highly resistant to urban pollution, pests, and fire.
Geographic Range
Native only to small areas in China (Zhejiang and Guizhou provinces). However, it is planted globally as an ornamental in temperate and subtropical climates.
Condition Notes
Excellent health. The leaf shows high turgidity, vibrant green color, and no signs of insect predation, fungal rust, or nutrient chlorosis.
Interesting Facts
Ginkgo is the oldest living tree species in the world, dating back to the Permian period. Individual trees can live for over 1,000 years. Six Ginkgo trees famously survived the Hiroshima atomic blast practically at ground zero and are still living today.
Medicinal & Uses
Extracts from the leaves are used in supplements for cognitive enhancement and memory. The seeds (inner kernels) are edible when cooked and are a delicacy in Asian cuisine. The tree is a popular urban ornamental due to its hardiness.
Ecological Role
Provides habitat for urban birds and insects. It is a resilient survivor species with high carbon sequestration potential. Conservation status in the wild is 'Endangered' due to limited natural range.
Similar Species
There are no similar living species. Its unique venation and fan shape distinguish it from all other modern trees.
Foraging Tips
Identify in autumn by the bright yellow carpet of leaves on the ground. Look for trees with thick, corky bark and distinctive short spurs on the branches. Collect leaves in late summer or early fall for pressing.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic. The fleshy seed coat contains ginkgolic acid, which causes severe contact dermatitis (similar to poison ivy). Raw seeds contain a neurotoxin; they must be roasted/cooked and consumed in limited quantities. Leaves are generally safe to handle but should not be ingested raw.