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Image of beautiful Gingko
Biloba tree
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Gingko Biloba
(Maidenhair
Tree, Baiguo, Yajiao, Gongunsho, Yinxing, The Sacred Tree) |
Origin: China, Japan
Family: Ginkgophyta
Light:
Full-part
sun
Height: 90'+
Foliage:
Light green,
leathery, unusual fan-shaped, bi-lobed on 3" leafstalk, resemblance of Maidenhair
fern
Seeds: 1" long almond-size nut with fleshy outer layer
Soil: Well-drianed, sandy, acidic, keep moist,
Water: Keep watered till 20' tall
Fertilizer: 1-2 times annually
Insects/Disease: Resistant
Propagation:
Seeds, cuttings, suckers, grafting
Uses: Specimen, windbreaker, landscaping, indoors, container
Problems: Mites, scales
Caution: Outer fleshing seed coating may cause skin irritation or
allergic reaction, wear gloves
Comments: Gingko Biloba or Maidenhair Tree or Bai gao or Yajiao or
Gongunsho or Yin xing or The Sacred Tree is a living fossils tree with
aerial roots. Some of these trees in China were known to be more
than 1,5000 years old. Maidenhair Tree can grow up to 2' per year. This
fast growing hardy deciduous tree is wind and insect resistant and can
tolerate the cold, heat, salt and drought. Gongunsho experiences
seasonal changes in the Fall and the leaves will change to gold and then
fall off. Only the male plants will produce pollen cones.
Maidenhair Tree has a history of traditional medicinal value in the
Orient. The dried Yinxing roots are of high monetary value and are
being sold in most Oriental stores. Maidenhair Tree roots are popularly used by the
Chinese in soup as an engergizing drink. It has a pleasant taste
and I was told it keeps you youthful, improves your memory and enhances
your concentration. Yinxing drinks are also readily availabe in stores,
sold in small bottles. Gingko Biloba are also sold in capsule
form. Hypertensive people should consult their doctor first before
taking it. The Sacred Tree is a very valuable tree and can be grown as
a garden shade tree or it can be trained as a hedge or climber.
USDA Hardiness Zones : 1-10 |
