Ginkco biloba
Ginkco biloba
Originally hailing from China, this resilient tree is not only an ornamental marvel with its unique fan-shaped leaves and brilliant yellow fall coloration but also a powerhouse of traditional medicine. Celebrated for its potential to enhance cognitive functions and improve blood circulation, Ginkgo has been a cornerstone in herbal remedies for ages. Whether you're seeking a natural touch of beauty for your landscape or delving into its profound health benefits, the Ginkgo biloba is a timeless addition to any collection.
Scientific Name: Ginkgo biloba
Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Alternative Names: Ginkgo, Ginko, Maidenhair tree
Mature Size: Rises to impressive heights of 70-110 ft.
Growing Conditions:
- Origin: Originally from China, but now cultivated globally.
- Transplanting: Can be transplanted with relative ease.
- Sunlight: Favors full sunlight for optimal growth.
- Soil: Best in well-drained, consistently moist soils.
- Tolerance: Resistant to many pests and diseases, making it a popular choice for urban settings.
Features:
- Leaves: Unique fan-shaped, often turning a brilliant yellow in the fall.
- Seeds: Encased in a fleshy outer layer that has a distinctive, sometimes off-putting smell when it falls and starts to decompose.
- Bark: Smooth to slightly ribbed, light gray in color.
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Health Benefits and Traditional Medicine: Ginkgo biloba has a storied legacy in traditional medicine, particularly within Chinese herbal practices where it has been used for thousands of years. Its leaves and seeds are believed to have a plethora of medicinal properties. The extract from the leaves is renowned for its potential to enhance memory and cognitive function.
Many people turn to Ginkgo supplements to combat age-related decline in brain health and to promote improved blood circulation. Additionally, the tree's antioxidants are thought to combat free radicals, thereby assisting in the prevention of premature aging and various chronic diseases. It's also been used traditionally to treat ailments ranging from asthma to fatigue. However, while Ginkgo is celebrated for its health benefits, it's essential for users to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating it into their regimen, as the tree's components can interact with certain medications and conditions
Wildlife Attraction:
The Ginkgo tree, though not a primary food source for many animals, does attract some wildlife. Fallen seeds may be foraged by squirrels and other small mammals once their outer layer decomposes. Birds may perch amongst its branches, and specific insects, like the Ginkgo biloba moth caterpillar, have evolved to feed exclusively on its leaves. However, the tree's primary role in non-native regions is ornamental, so it's not central to local food webs.
Non-GMO Commitment: At Growing Farmers and The Farm on Central, all our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and not genetically modified in any way, upholding natural breeding methods and promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices.
Conventionally grown bare-root whip, 1-2 ft tall