How to Grow and Care for Ginkgo

Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba) is a living fossil - a tree with such a long history that there are recognizable fossils dating to as much as 270 million years ago. Maidenhair tree is considered one of the earliest plant species cultivated by humans throughout history. The ripe fruits give off an unpleasant scent, so growers often plant only the male (non-fruiting) plants.

Maidenhair tree 'Tubifolia' is a cultivar produced from Maidenhair tree. It has similar characteristics as other trees in the family, with one exception. It is a semi-dwarf tree, unlike other family members, that can grow up to 30 m. Maidenhair tree 'Tubifolia' gets its nickname from its shaped leaves that often resemble tubes.

Maidenhair tree 'Mariken' is distinct from other Ginkgo biloba cultivars as a dwarf shrub. It gets its name from the legendary figure Mariken van Nieumeghen. As a much smaller member of the Ginkgo family, it is often used as an ornamental shrub or as a bonsai.

Maidenhair tree 'Autumn Gold' is distinct for its bright yellow autumn foliage. A cultivar of Ginkgo biloba, it is named for that foliage, which dazzles the eye both on the tree and after it falls, carpeting the surrounding area. This is a fruitless male cultivar. It serves as an excellent backdrop or shade tree.

Maidenhair tree 'Horizontalis' grows outward with a nearly flat canopy. A cultivar of Ginkgo biloba, it gets its name from the tendency to grow horizontally rather than vertically, reaching up to 3 m tall but 6 m wide. It is admired for its golden autumn foliage, its exotic look in winter, and for being highly pollution-resistant.