About this tree
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known simply as ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is a living fossil and one of the oldest known tree species on Earth, with origins dating back 170 million years. The tree is known for its unique fan-shaped leaves, which turn a brilliant yellow in the autumn. The ginkgo tree is deciduous, reaching heights of 20–30 m, and has a distinctive, irregularly branching shape. It is highly resistant to pollution and can be long lived, with some specimens estimated to be 1,400 years old. The tree produces inconspicuous male and female flowers, with the female trees producing seeds encased in a fleshy, strong-smelling fruit. While prehistorically widespread, ginkgoes are now considered critically imperilled and are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s endangered list. Ginkgo biloba, the only surviving species, was originally native to China, but is now found worldwide. Initially spread as a symbolic tree for Buddhist worship sites, it has been since been cultivated for its ornamental value. In addition, all parts of the tree have traditional uses. Its leaves are used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating memory and respiratory disorders. The fruits and nuts are toxic, but if heated through by roasting or candying, they can be consumed in small amounts. The wood of the ginkgo, meanwhile, is used in crafts, such as for “masu”, the small wooden box cups used to serve sake.