Ginkgo Trees

Ginkgo trees, including varieties such as Ginkgo Biloba, Biloba Fastigiata Blagon, Horizontalis, Mariken, and Pyramidalis, blend historical significance with modern landscaping appeal. Known as living fossils, these ancient plants have been cultivated for their unique fan-shaped leaves and robust growth. They make stunning standalone specimens or elegant rows in various landscape designs.

Historical Significance

Originating in China, these ancient plants have existed for over 200 million years, surviving major extinction events. Their resilience and longevity symbolize endurance and vitality. In the UK, Ginkgo Biloba gained popularity in the 18th century, featuring prominently in botanical gardens and urban landscapes. Globally, ginkgoes are revered for their medicinal properties and aesthetic beauty.

Popular Varieties

Several types of ginkgo thrive in the UK, each offering unique attributes. Ginkgo Biloba is well-known for its fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow in autumn, providing year-round interest. Biloba Fastigiata Blagon, with its narrow, upright growth habit, suits smaller spaces and urban settings. Horizontalis offers a broad, spreading form with a unique horizontal branching structure. Mariken, a dwarf variety, is perfect for small gardens or containers due to its dense, compact growth. Additionally, Pyramidalis grows in a columnar shape, adding vertical interest to landscapes.

Using Ginkgo in Landscaping

These trees excel as both standalone specimens and in rows, offering versatility in landscaping. Their dense foliage and striking autumn color make them ideal focal points in gardens. When planted in rows, they create beautiful, structured avenues or natural privacy screens. The unique leaf shape and vibrant fall color enhance any landscape design, providing a timeless and elegant look.

Attributes and Benefits

Ginkgoes, prized for their dense foliage and moderate growth rate, are relatively low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases. They thrive in various soil types and conditions, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Their low toxicity makes them safe for gardens frequented by children and pets. Furthermore, these trees are easy to prune, allowing gardeners to maintain their shape and size effortlessly.

Interesting Facts

These plants have several fascinating attributes. Some ginkgoes live for over 1,000 years, highlighting their incredible longevity. They also showcase remarkable resilience, as ginkgoes were among the few living things to survive the Hiroshima atomic bomb in 1945. Moreover, ginkgo leaves have been used in traditional medicine to improve memory and circulation, underscoring their medicinal value.

Common Questions

Ginkgoes grow at a moderate rate, typically adding 12 to 24 inches per year under optimal conditions. Varieties like Mariken and Biloba Fastigiata Blagon are well-suited for small gardens and urban spaces due to their compact growth habits. These trees require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Applying a balanced fertilizer in spring promotes healthy growth, while pruning helps maintain their shape and size.

Conclusion

Ginkgo trees from Harrod Outdoors offer a blend of historical significance, beauty, and practicality for your garden or landscape. Whether you choose Ginkgo Biloba, Biloba Fastigiata Blagon, Horizontalis, Mariken, or Pyramidalis, these plants provide structure, vibrant color, and year-round interest. Explore our selection of ginkgoes and transform your outdoor space with their timeless elegance and robust presence.