Ginkgo Ornamental Tree (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo Ornamental Tree Description

The Ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba), also known as the Maidenhair Tree, is one of the most distinctive ornamental trees available for UK gardens. Famous for its elegant fan-shaped leaves and vivid golden autumn display, it provides year-round architectural interest and seasonal colour.

As one of the oldest living tree species, Ginkgo has an extraordinary history dating back more than 200 million years, earning it the nickname “living fossil.”

During spring and summer, the tree produces vibrant green foliage that gradually transforms into brilliant golden yellow tones in autumn, creating a striking focal point in gardens and landscapes.

Ginkgo trees are highly valued for:

• Ornamental planting
• Feature tree displays
• Urban gardens
• Pollution tolerance
• Long lifespan and resilience

This hardy deciduous tree adapts well to a wide range of soil conditions and is particularly tolerant of pollution, making it ideal for towns and cities as well as larger residential gardens.

Male Ginkgo trees are typically preferred for ornamental planting because female trees can produce fruit with a strong odour.

Pruning Advice

Ginkgo trees require very little pruning due to their naturally elegant growth habit.

When to prune:

• Late winter or early spring before new growth begins

Maintenance tips:

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Light shaping can help maintain structure in younger trees
• Avoid excessive pruning, as mature Ginkgo trees naturally develop an attractive form

Minimal maintenance makes Ginkgo an excellent low-maintenance ornamental tree choice.

Further Information

• Golden Autumn Colour: Leaves turn vibrant golden yellow in autumn
• Unique Fan-Shaped Leaves: Distinctive foliage adds architectural interest
• Urban Tolerant: Handles pollution and city conditions exceptionally well
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning once established
• Long-Lived Tree: Known for exceptional resilience and longevity
• Wildlife Friendly: Provides habitat and shelter for garden wildlife

Ginkgo trees are especially valued as feature trees due to their unusual foliage and spectacular autumn display.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does a Ginkgo tree grow?
Ginkgo trees have a moderate growth rate of around 30–60cm per year.

Do Ginkgo trees lose their leaves in winter?
Yes, Ginkgo is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves in autumn after turning golden yellow.

Are Ginkgo trees suitable for UK gardens?
Yes, Ginkgo trees are hardy and well suited to UK growing conditions.

Can Ginkgo trees grow in pots?
Young Ginkgo trees can be grown in large containers, although they are best suited to open ground long term.

Why is Ginkgo called a living fossil?
Ginkgo trees are considered living fossils because they are one of the oldest surviving tree species, dating back over 200 million years.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.