Maidenhair Tree Ginkgo biloba 'Fastigiata' (m)
ABOUT
Ginkgo biloba 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the upright ginkgo, has a distinctive appearance characterized by its unique fan-shaped leaves. The leaves, which are a bright green color in the growing season, turn a brilliant golden-yellow before dropping in the fall. This transformation creates a striking display that is highly valued in landscape settings. Unlike the species Ginkgo biloba, which can be quite broad and spreading, the 'Fastigiata' variety has a more columnar or narrow form, hence the term "upright" in its common name. The plant's branching structure tends to be dense and upright, creating a visually appealing vertical element in gardens or urban settings. The bark of the ginkgo is typically light gray and becomes deeply furrowed with age, providing additional textural interest. As a dioecious plant, meaning there are separate male and female individuals, the 'Fastigiata' designation is typically applied to male clones, which are preferred for landscape use as they do not produce the malodorous fruits associated with female ginkgo trees.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ginkgoaceae
Synonyms
Maidenhair Tree, Ginkgo
Common names
Ginkgo biloba 'Fastigiata' (m).
ToxicityTo humans
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is generally not toxic to humans, especially the male trees like 'Fastigiata' (m) which do not produce seeds. However, the seeds, particularly when consumed in large quantities or in a raw state, can be toxic due to the presence of the compound 4'-O-methylpyridoxine (Ginkgotoxin), which can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, heart palpitations, and in severe cases, seizures. It is important to note that the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, used commonly in herbal supplements, are not considered toxic when prepared properly.
To pets
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is not commonly associated with toxicity in pets. However, similar to humans, the seeds (if ever produced and accessible by pets) can cause digestive upset or more serious symptoms such as seizures if ingested in large amounts due to the toxin 4'-O-methylpyridoxine. Generally, pets are less likely to be exposed to these seeds as they are often from female trees, and 'Fastigiata' (m) is a male cultivar. Nonetheless, pet owners should still prevent their animals from eating any parts of the plant to be safe.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
50 feet (15 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to the landscape with its unique, columnar form.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires less water and is suitable for xeriscaping.
- Urban Tolerant: Thrives in urban environments, tolerating pollution and soil compaction.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with little need for pruning.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides stunning yellow fall color, enhancing the autumn landscape.
- Shade Provider: Offers shade in summer due to its dense canopy.
- Longevity: Ginkgo trees are known for their long lifespan, often living for centuries.
- Wildlife Support: Can serve as a food source for wildlife, particularly birds.
- Resistance to Pests: Typically shows resistance to common pests and diseases.
Medical Properties- Improving blood flow and circulation: Ginkgo biloba extract is often used to improve blood circulation, especially to the brain.
- Antioxidant properties: The flavonoids and terpenoids found in Ginkgo biloba have strong antioxidant effects.
- Reduction in symptoms of dementia: Some studies suggest that Ginkgo biloba may help ease the symptoms associated with cognitive disorders such as dementia.
- Treatment of anxiety: Ginkgo extract has been found to have a positive effect on reducing anxiety symptoms in some individuals.
- Improving vision and eye health: Due to its blood flow enhancement properties, Ginkgo biloba may contribute to better eye health, particularly in cases related to macular degeneration.
- Relief from PMS symptoms: Ginkgo may help alleviate both physical and psychological symptoms premenstrual syndrome.
- Migraine and headache prevention: Some people use Ginkgo biloba as a treatment to reduce the frequency of migraines and headaches.
- Tinnitus treatment: There is some evidence to suggest that Ginkgo biloba can help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus when it is of vascular origin.
- Raynaud's syndrome: The herb has been used to help alleviate symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome, a condition affecting blood flow to extremities.
- Cognitive enhancement: Ginkgo is sometimes taken with the aim of improving memory and cognitive functions, particularly in the elderly.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ginkgo biloba leaves can be used as a natural dye, offering hues of yellow to fabrics or paper through a dyeing process.
- The fan-shaped leaves can serve as unique bookmarks, especially after they have been dried and pressed to retain their shape and color.
- Extract from the leaves can be used in cosmetics, such as anti-aging creams or natural fragrances, due to their aromatic compounds.
- The wood of Ginkgo biloba can be used in fine woodworking and cabinetry due to its pleasant cream to light yellow coloration and workability.
- The plant's unique and attractive shape makes it a popular choice for botanical art subjects, like illustrations and photography.
- Dried ginkgo leaves can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a natural and visually appealing element.
- The sturdy nature of Ginkgo biloba's branches allows for their use in creative supports or frameworks in the art of kokedama or decorative plant arrangements.
- Mature trees can serve as wind barriers when planted in densely packed rows, due to their resistance to wind damage.
- Ginkgo nuts, when cooked, can be used in a variety of culinary dishes, especially in East Asian cuisine, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
- Ginkgo biloba leaves can be featured in educational materials or botanical studies to help teach about unique leaf venation patterns and plant history.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ginkgo tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ginkgo tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Ginkgo biloba is known for its remarkable lifespan; some specimens are believed to be over 2,500 years old, symbolizing endurance and the ability to withstand the passage of time.
- Resilience: The Ginkgo tree survived the bombing of Hiroshima, symbolizing resilience and the capacity to endure great adversity or change.
- Hope: As a living fossil, unchanged for millions of years, the Ginkgo represents hope and the continuation of life through difficult circumstances.
- Peace: Due to its history and survival through destructive events, the Ginkgo often stands for peace and a reminder of the horrors of war, encouraging a more harmonious future.
- Memory and Cognition: Ginkgo biloba is widely used in traditional medicine to enhance memory and cognitive functions, making it a symbol for intelligence and mental sharpness.
WaterThe Ginkgo tree, also known as the Maidenhair tree, should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the first growing season, it's crucial to establish a strong root system, hence more frequent watering may be necessary, such as twice a week, especially if the weather is particularly hot or dry. Apply approximately 10-15 gallons of water each time to ensure that moisture reaches the deep roots. As the tree matures, it becomes more drought-tolerant, and watering frequency can be reduced. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
LightMaidenhair trees thrive best in full sun conditions; they should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they are also tolerant to part shade, especially in hotter regions. To maximize healthy growth and leaf development, placing the tree in an unobstructed area where it can receive ample sunlight throughout the day is ideal.
TemperatureMaidenhair trees are adaptable to a wide range of temperatures and can withstand winter cold down to about -30°F, while their upper heat tolerance extends to about 100°F. They prefer moderate temperatures typical of temperate regions and perform best with summer temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. Extreme temperatures beyond these ranges may adversely affect the tree's health and growth.
PruningThe Maidenhair tree requires minimal pruning, done primarily for removing dead or damaged branches or to shape the tree as desired. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. It is not necessary to prune the tree annually; every few years is generally sufficient unless there is a specific issue that needs to be addressed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Maidenhair Tree thrives best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level of 6.5-7.5. A mix of garden soil, sand, and organic compost is ideal. Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
RepottingThe Maidenhair Tree should be repotted infrequently, ideally every 3-5 years as it is a slow grower. Repot in spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingThe Maidenhair Tree is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to most environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, limited water, and ample space.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, spaced well, in free-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Ginkgo biloba 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the Maidenhair Tree, begins with seed germination, which requires stratification to break dormancy. Following germination, the seedling grows into a juvenile tree with distinctive fan-shaped leaves, a stage that can last for several years before it reaches maturity. As a dioecious plant, 'Fastigiata' is the male cultivar, which means it does not produce fruit but does produce pollen when mature, typically after 20-30 years of growth. The mature male Ginkgo tree will produce pollen annually every spring, which is dispersed by the wind to fertilize female trees. Over decades, the tree develops a columnar to pyramidal form, reaching heights of up to 50 feet or more, and can live for hundreds of years with minimal maintenance. In autumn, the unique leaves turn a bright, golden yellow before shedding, a process which occurs annually and is followed by a period of dormancy through the winter months.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Ginkgo or Maidenhair Tree, specifically the 'Fastigiata' cultivar, is most commonly propagated through seed or grafting, but the most popular and reliable method is grafting. This technique involves taking a scion or a young shoot from the 'Fastigiata' male tree and joining it to the rootstock of a common Ginkgo biloba seedling. Grafting is typically done in late winter when the tree is dormant, which allows time for the graft union to heal before the growing season begins. The scion should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long with several buds. A compatible rootstock is chosen, and a precise cut is made on both the rootstock and the scion to ensure that the cambium layers, which are responsible for growth, are aligned. The graft is then secured with grafting tape or a similar material, and coated with a grafting compound or wax to prevent dehydration and infection. The grafted plant is kept under controlled conditions until the graft union is strong enough to be planted out.
