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Plant Profiles / Ginkgo
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba · Maidenhair tree
An ancient tree with fan-shaped leaves that turn brilliant butter-yellow in autumn. Dwarf forms suit large pots.
Full sun to part shadeLight
Weekly in summerWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Best colour in sun.
Water
Weekly in summer
DryWet
Water when the top is dry.
Humidity
Any
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-20–38°C (-4–100°F)
CoolWarm
Very hardy.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
Dwarf forms 1–3 m; species 15 m+.
Soil
Quality potting mix
LeanRich
Free-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Slow-release fertiliser.
Pet safety
Mildly toxic
SafeToxic
Seeds are mildly toxic.
About this plant
Ginkgo is a living fossil from China, unchanged for millions of years. It's slow, tough and pollution tolerant. Choose male or dwarf cultivars to avoid smelly fruit.
Best spots
Courtyards, large balcony pots and feature spots in the garden.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Ginkgo biloba |
| Family | Ginkgoaceae |
| Origin | China |
| Plant type | Deciduous tree |
| Mature size | 1–15 m+ |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Leaves | Fan-shaped, gold in autumn |
| Toxicity | Seeds mildly toxic |
| Propagation | Grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Autumn colour
Prune
Fertilise
PlantAutumn colourPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Slow growth | Normal. |
| Leaf scorch | Hot wind or dry pot. |
| Smelly fruit | Female tree; choose male forms. |
| No colour | More sun. |
Common questions
Can it grow in a pot?
Dwarf forms can.
Is it hardy?
Very.
Does it fruit?
Only female trees.
Is it deciduous?
Yes.
