Ginkgo biloba L., often called the ginkgo tree or maidenhair tree, is considered an ancient tree. It is the only surviving species of a group of trees that dates back over 200 million years, making it a "living fossil." Ginkgo trees were widespread during the time of the dinosaurs and have remained largely unchanged in their structure and appearance since then. While its natural habitat includes China, Japan, and Korea, the ginkgo tree is thought to have originated in the remote mountainous valleys of Zhejiang province in eastern China.
Ginkgo trees are widely planted in urban environments due to their resilient to urban conditions and aesthetic appeal. These trees are known for their ability to tolerate air pollution, compacted soils, and temperature extremes. They are naturally resistant to pests and diseases, which minimizes maintenance requirements and ensures their longevity. The tree’s distinctive fan-shaped leaves and vibrant yellow fall color make it a visually striking addition to urban landscapes. Moreover, their adaptability to various climates and soil types allows them to flourish in diverse city settings. These qualities, combined with their ease of care, have made ginkgo trees a popular choice for enhancing city streets and parks. Despite their many benefits, ginkgo trees can be controversial in urban areas due to their seeds, which emit a strong odor as they decay. In response to this issue, New York City’s Parks Department has committed to no longer planting female ginkgo trees.
References
Dmuchowski, W., Brągoszewska, P., Gozdowski, D., Baczewska-Dabrowska, A. B., Chojnacki, T., Jozwiak, A., ... & Suwara, I. (2019). Strategy of Ginkgo biloba L. in the mitigation of salt stress in the urban environment. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 38, 223-231.
Singh, B., Kaur, P., Singh, R. D., & Ahuja, P. S. (2008). Biology and chemistry of Ginkgo biloba. Fitoterapia, 79(6), 401-418.
Murphy, R. Dealing with Urban Ginkgo Seeds: Turning a nuisance into a new local food product.
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