Overview & Taxonomy
The Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba), categorized under Trees, belongs to the Ginkgoaceae family (Ginkgo biloba).
- Etymology: Japanese 'Ginkyo' (silver apricot)
- Distribution & Habitat: Native to China, it thrives in Temperate mountain valleys.
Botanical Features & Phenology
Ancient gymnosperm tree with fan-shaped leaves.
- Phenology: Foliage turns vibrant gold in autumn.
- Tolerances: Pollution, salt, compacted urban soil.
- Pests & Diseases: Virtually pest resistant.
Uses & Conservation
- Primary Uses: Herbal extract supplements, urban shade tree.
- Cultivars: Autumn Gold, Princeton Sentry
- Safety: Seeds contain ginkgotoxin; handle raw fruit carefully.
- Conservation Status: Endangered (Wild)
- Historical Context: Living fossil unchanged for over 200 million years.
References: Ginkgo Pages, Botanical Museum