Ginkgo biloba: Origin, history and uniqueness
El Ginkgo biloba It is an authentic living fossil, considered by scientists to be one of the oldest trees in existence. Its origin dates back to prehistoric times, bearing witness to global plant evolution and the extinction of many other trees that coexisted with the dinosaurs. The Ginkgo is the only living member of the Ginkgoaceae family and the Ginkgo genus, making it a true botanical gem.
Its presence in the wild is mainly limited to some mountainous areas in eastern China, where extremely long-lived specimens survive. Specimens with Over a thousand years, and even some that far exceed that figure, which contributes to its mysticism and worldwide admiration. In addition to its longevity, the Ginkgo stands out for its cold resistance (tolerates intense frosts), heat, drought and urban pollution, factors that justify its frequent use as an ornamental tree in cities and gardens around the world.
Botanical description and morphology
El Ginkgo biloba It is a deciduous tree that can reach heights from about 20 up to more than 40 meters, depending on the conditions and variety. When young, its crown has a columnar shape, evolving into a wider and more branched structure over time. There are also dwarf varieties, columnar, horizontal and pendulous, being highly valued in small spaces or for bonsai.
Su trunk It is straight and corky, greyish brown in colour, with deep longitudinal fissures, which gives it character and robustness. remaining They are scarce, but surprisingly populous when they reach maturity.
Leaves: One of the most notable characteristics of the Ginkgo are its leaves, unique in the plant kingdom for their shape. bilobed fanThese leaves, with a fleshy texture and light green when budding, cluster together and turn a brilliant golden color in autumn before falling, providing an incomparable visual spectacle.
Flowering and fruiting: The Ginkgo is a species dioecious, that is, there are male and female trees. The male individuals produce yellow catkins that release large quantities of pollen, while the female ones develop more discreet inflorescences and the characteristic pseudofruits Yellow, spherical plants with an unpleasant aroma due to the butyric acid they contain. Male plants are usually preferred in urban settings to avoid the smell of ripe fruit.
Ideal growing conditions
El Ginkgo biloba It is highly adaptable and robust, making it easy to grow in a variety of climates and soils. However, to ensure optimal development and long-lasting health, the following aspects should be taken into account:
- Light and location: It should be planted in full sun to maximize its growth and color vibrancy, although it adapts to semi-shade. It is essential to avoid placing it near buildings or obstacles that restrict its root and aerial expansion.
- Floors: Tolerates most soil types, as long as they are deep, loose and well-drainedWaterlogging is the main enemy of its roots. It prefers sandy soils rich in organic matter, but will also tolerate poor or clayey soils if they do not retain excess water.
- Irrigation: During the first years, it requires deep and regular watering to promote root development. Once established, it is remarkably drought-resistant and does not require heavy watering. It is preferable to space out watering and increase the frequency only during the warmer months, suspending it in winter after the leaves fall.
- Temperature: It tolerates intense frosts and hot periods, adapting to both temperate and more extreme climates. However, it thrives most vigorously in areas with harsh winters and moderate summers.
Maintenance, pruning and fertilization
Ginkgo biloba is very easy to maintain and undemanding in terms of intensive care, making it ideal for both experienced and beginner gardeners.
- Pruning: It's usually unnecessary, as the tree tends to maintain its natural shape. If it's absolutely necessary, pruning should be limited to removing damaged or troublesome branches, carried out in late winter and avoiding drastic cuts on older branches, as the Ginkgo doesn't respond well to severe pruning.
- Subscriber: During spring and summer, it is recommended to apply mineral fertilizers every 15 days to stimulate growth. In autumn, the contribution of compost or mature manure to improve the structure and fertility of the substrate before winter dormancy. After transplanting, it's best not to fertilize that year, as the new soil usually provides sufficient nutrients.
- Transplant: It should be done in spring or autumn, taking care not to disturb the root ball, since the Ginkgo roots are sensitive.
Natural resistance: pests, diseases and adaptability
El Ginkgo biloba It is resistant to most plagues and diseases, even withstanding high levels of pollution and radiation. Its survival capacity was demonstrated after the Hiroshima explosion, being one of the first trees to regrow in such extreme conditions. It requires virtually no phytosanitary treatments. The greatest threat to its health is usually the excess of water which can cause the appearance of mushrooms (powdery mildew) or root suffocation. Therefore, drainage control and moderate irrigation are essential.
reproduction and multiplication
Ginkgo can reproduce by seeds o cuttings, depending on the objectives and the availability of vegetative material.
- By seeds: Both male and female specimens are required to obtain viable seeds. The process includes harvesting pseudofruits in the fall, cleaning, and subsequent stratification to improve germination rates. Seeds should be stored at a moderate temperature before sowing.
- By cuttings: It consists of cutting green cuttings between 7 and 10 centimeters long and inserting them into sandy soil. This technique ensures the exact replication of the parent tree's characteristics and is the most reliable way to obtain a specimen of a specific sex, especially if you want to avoid odorous fruit.
Ornamental and landscaping uses
El Ginkgo biloba It is frequently used in urban alignments, private parks and gardens, as well as in the creation of groves , as a solitary specimen. In addition, it has become very popular in the art of bonsai Due to its resistance and the beauty of its leaves and trunk, it adapts perfectly to both large areas and smaller pots. For more growing options and shapes, you can also consult Ginkgo bonsai care.
Medicinal benefits and traditional uses
El Ginkgo biloba It is recognized beyond its ornamental value, especially by the therapeutic properties from its leaves and seeds, used for thousands of years in traditional Asian medicine. Its main benefits include:
- Memory stimulation and brain performance thanks to its effects on blood circulation.
- Powerful antioxidant natural, combating cellular aging and protecting eye and skin health.
- Relief from circulatory problems such as tired legs or heaviness, thanks to its vasodilatory effect.
- Natural help for tinnitus, vertigo, and dizziness.
- Its extracts are used for support the concentration and mental vitality, recommended for students or people with high intellectual demands.
It must be consumed only under medical supervision and in controlled forms, since high doses or inappropriate combinations can cause adverse effects such as headaches, digestive discomfort, and interactions with anticoagulant medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not consume it without consulting a specialist.
