About
This slow-growing, broad, deciduous shrub to small tree reaching a height of around 4m, with a fan-shaped crown and grey-brown, deeply furrowed bark when mature. Inconspicuous green flowers appear from April to May. Fan-shaped leaves emerge curled into a cup-shape and are pale green in spring, turning darker green in the summer then golden in the autumn.
About the genus
Ginkgo are large deciduous trees, developing an irregular, spreading crown with age, fan-shaped, 2-lobed leaves, and on female trees, unpleasantly scented yellow fruits each containing a single large seed
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
ToxicitySeeds harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Seed TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Tolerant of atmospheric pollution. Makes a good specimen tree. See tree cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required but pruning group 1 if necessary
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)