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Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Ginkgo

Beginner

Ginkgo biloba

An ancient tree called a living fossil. Fan-shaped leaves and vivid yellow autumn color are spectacular. Unique aerial roots (chichi) add interest. Hardy and beginner-friendly.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
Several centuries or more
Size
20-80cm (bonsai size)
Watering
Fertilizer (regular)

About

Ginkgo is a genus of non-flowering seed plants, assigned to the gymnosperms. The scientific name is also used as the English common name. The order to which the genus belongs, Ginkgoales, first appeared in the Permian, 270 million years ago, and Ginkgo is now the only living genus within the order. The rate of evolution within the genus has been slow, and almost all its species had become extinct by the end of the Pliocene. The sole surviving species, Ginkgo biloba, is found in the wild only in China, but is cultivated around the world. The relationships between ginkgos and other groups of plants are not fully resolved.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Ginkgo

The Ginkgo lives Several centuries or more.

Size of the Ginkgo

The Ginkgo grows to 20-80cm (bonsai size).

Basic Info

Origin

China (wild). Cultivated worldwide

Lifespan

Several centuries or more

Size

20-80cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

-5〜35℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Fertilizer (regular)

Growing Tips

Placement

Full sun outdoors. Extremely hardy and adaptable

Watering

Loves water. Water generously during growing season

Styling

Build ramification through pruning. Broom style is popular

Notes

Fast growing. Regular pruning to maintain size

BeginnerDeciduousAutumn goldAncient tree

Ginkgo FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Ginkgo?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Ginkgo?
A

The average lifespan of Ginkgo is Several centuries or more. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Ginkgo get?
A

The mature size of Ginkgo is 20-80cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Ginkgo?
A

Ginkgo: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (regular). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Ginkgo?
A

The price of Ginkgo varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Ginkgo biloba L.

Synonyms: Ginkgo macrophylla K.Koch, Ginkgo biloba aureovariegata Sénécl., Pterophyllus salisburiensis J.Nelson, Salisburia biloba (L.) Hoffmanns., Ginkgo biloba macrophylla-laciniata Sénécl., Salisburia ginkgo Rich.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN EN · Endangered

Wild populations are restricted to China and are listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List. Cultivated specimens are widespread worldwide.

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species / IUCN Red List: Ginkgo biloba

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

Find listings for this species

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