Maidenhair Tree

Ginkgo biloba

• Position: sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: slow-growing
• Flowering period: April to May
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This wonderful, ancient tree from China dates back at least 200 million years. Its distinctive, fan-shaped, bright green leaves turn bright gold when a warm autumn follows a warm summer. Mature male trees have thick, yellow catkins in late spring. This tree usually starts life shaped like a flagpole but gradually becomes wide spreading. It can cope with many city conditions, including pollution, and makes an elegant tree for a larger garden. Maidenhair trees were introduced to Japan about 1,000 years ago and often grown near temples - one reason why they are a common feature in Japanese-style gardens. The first maidenhair tree was brought to Britain and planted in Kew Gardens in 1760. It still stands today.
  

• Garden care: Requires minimal pruning. Remove any broken, diseased or crossing branches in late autumn or winter. When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly.