Hubbry Logo
GinkgoGinkgoMain
Open search
Ginkgo
Community hub
Ginkgo
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo
Ginkgo
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia
This article is about the genus of mainly extinct trees. For its single living species, the ginkgo tree, see Ginkgo biloba. For other uses, see Ginkgo (disambiguation).

Ginkgo
Temporal range: Middle Jurassic – Present
Habit of mature tree
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Gymnospermae
Division: Ginkgophyta
Class: Ginkgoopsida
Order: Ginkgoales
Family: Ginkgoaceae
Genus: Ginkgo
L. [1]
Type species
Ginkgo biloba
Species
Synonyms [2]

Salisburia Sm.

Ginkgo is a genus of non-flowering seed plants, assigned to the gymnosperms. The scientific name is also used as the English common name. The order to which the genus belongs, Ginkgoales, first appeared in the Permian,[3] 270 million years ago, and Ginkgo is now the only living genus within the order. The rate of evolution within the genus has been slow, and almost all its species had become extinct by the end of the Pliocene. The sole surviving species, Ginkgo biloba, is found in the wild only in China, but is cultivated around the world. The relationships between ginkgos and other groups of plants are not fully resolved.

Prehistory

[edit]
Leaves in autumn

The ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a living fossil, with fossils similar to the modern plant dating back to the Permian, 270 million years ago. The ancestor of the genus is estimated to have branched off from other gymnosperms about 325 million years ago, while the last common ancestor of today's only remaining species lived not earlier than 390,000 years ago.[4] The closest living relatives of the clade are the cycads,[5] which share with the extant G. biloba the characteristic of motile sperm. Motile sperm is believed to be a basal trait of green plants, as it is also present in all non-seed plants such as ferns and mosses, as well as most green algae, which are believed to be the base of the green plant clade, the group in which the last common ancestor of land plants emerged. Motile sperm have been lost in all seed plants except for the ginkgo and the cycads, making it a shared conserved trait—a plesiomorphy—and implying these two groups themselves form a clade, sharing a common ancestor also with the trait, which diverged early from the rest of the seed plant lineage.

The time of this divergence is estimated to be extremely ancient, dating to the early Carboniferous.[6] Fossils attributable to the genus Ginkgo with reproductive organs similar to the modern species first appeared in the Middle Jurassic,[7] and the genus diversified and spread throughout Laurasia during the Jurassic and Early Cretaceous. It declined in diversity as the Cretaceous progressed with the extinction of species such as Ginkgo huolinhensis, and by the Palaeocene, only a few Ginkgo species, Ginkgo cranei and Ginkgo adiantoides, remained in the Northern Hemisphere, while a markedly different (and poorly documented) form persisted in the Southern Hemisphere.[citation needed] At the end of the Pliocene, Ginkgo fossils disappeared from the fossil record everywhere except in a small area of central China, where the modern species survived. It is doubtful whether the Northern Hemisphere fossil species of Ginkgo can be reliably distinguished. Given the slow pace of evolution and morphological similarity between members of the genus, there may have been only one or two species existing in the Northern Hemisphere through the entirety of the Cenozoic: present-day G. biloba (including G. adiantoides) and G. gardneri from the Palaeocene of Scotland.[8]

At least morphologically, G. gardneri and the Southern Hemisphere species are the only known post-Jurassic taxa that can be unequivocally recognised. The remainder may have been ecotypes or subspecies. The implications would be that G. biloba had occurred over an extremely wide range, had remarkable genetic flexibility and, though evolving genetically, never showed much speciation. While it may seem improbable that a species may exist as a contiguous entity for many millions of years, many of the ginkgo's life-history parameters fit. It displays extreme longevity and a slow reproduction rate. Additionally, in Cenozoic and later times, the ginkgo's distribution is wide and apparently contiguous, although steadily contracting. The fossil record shows extreme ecological conservatism as the niche of the ginkgo is restricted to disturbed streamside environments.[9]

Modern-day G. biloba grows best in well-watered and drained environments,[10] and the extremely similar fossil Ginkgo favoured similar environments. The sediment records at the majority of fossil Ginkgo localities indicate it grew primarily in disturbed environments along streams and levees.[9] Ginkgo therefore presents an "ecological paradox" because, while it possesses some favourable traits for living in disturbed environments (clonal reproduction), many of its other life-history traits (slow growth, large seed size, late reproductive maturity) are the opposite of those exhibited by "younger", more-recently emerged plant species that thrive in disturbed settings.[11]

Given the slow rate of evolution of the genus, it is possible that Ginkgo represents a pre-angiosperm strategy for survival in disturbed streamside environments. Ginkgo evolved in an era before angiosperms (flowering plants), when ferns, cycads, and cycadeoids dominated disturbed streamside environments, forming a low, open, shrubby canopy. The large seeds of Ginkgo and its habit of "bolting"—growing to a height of approx. 10 metres (30 feet) before elongating its side branches—may be adaptations to such an environment. Diversity in the genus Ginkgo dropped through the Cretaceous (along with that of ferns, cycads, and cycadeoids) at the same time the flowering plants were on the rise, which supports the notion that flowering plants, with their better adaptations to disturbance, displaced Ginkgo and its associates over time.[12]

Trichopitys heteromorpha from the earliest Permian of France, is one of the earliest fossils ascribed to the Ginkgophyta.[13] It had multiple-forked non-laminar leaves with cylindrical, thread-like ultimate divisions. Sphenobaiera (early Permian–Cretaceous) had wedge-shaped leaves divided into narrow dichotomously-veined lobes, lacking distinct petioles (leaf stalks). Baiera (Triassic–Jurassic) had similar multiple-lobed leaves but with petioles.[14]: 743–756 

Phylogeny

[edit]
Rock showing fossils of fan-shaped leaves
Fossil Ginkgo huttonii leaves from the Jurassic of England

As of February 2013, molecular phylogenetic studies have produced at least six different placements of Ginkgo relative to cycads, conifers, gnetophytes and angiosperms. The two most common are that Ginkgo is a sister to a clade composed of conifers and gnetophytes, and that Ginkgo and cycads form a clade within the gymnosperms. A 2013 study examined the reasons for the discrepant results and concluded that the best support was for the monophyly of Ginkgo and cycads.[15]

Etymology

[edit]

Engelbert Kaempfer first introduced the spelling ginkgo in his book Amoenitatum Exoticarum, taking it from Japanese herbalist Tekisai Nakamura [ja] in his manuscript, Kinmō Zu'i [ja], acquired in Dejima between 1689–91. It is considered that he may have misspelled ginkyo or ginkio, which is a Japanese pronunciation for the kanji Japanese: 銀杏, lit. 'silver apricot',[16] as ginkgo;[17] this misspelling was included by Carl Linnaeus in his book Mantissa plantarum II[18] and has become the name of the tree's genus.[17][19] The original Chinese name of Japanese: 銀杏 was found in Chinese herbology literature such as Daily Use Materia Medica (日用本草) (1329) and Compendium of Materia Medica (本草綱目) published in 1578.[20]

Despite its spelling, deriving from a transcription error, "ginkgo" is usually pronounced /ˈɡɪŋkoʊ/, which has given rise to the common alternative spelling "gingko". The spelling pronunciation /ˈɡɪŋkɡoʊ/ is also documented in some dictionaries.[19][21]

Food

[edit]

In Korea, the seed flesh is eaten with rice.[22]

References

[edit]

Sources

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ginkgo

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as the maidenhair tree or ginkgo, is the sole extant species in the ancient order and the only living member of the family within the division Ginkgophyta. This is characterized by its distinctive fan-shaped leaves with parallel venation, which resemble those of the maidenhair fern, and can reach heights of 50 to 80 feet (15 to 24 meters) with a pyramidal to irregular crown. Native to eastern , where it has been cultivated for millennia, G. biloba is dioecious, producing separate male and female trees; female trees bear plum-like seeds encased in a foul-smelling fleshy covering, while male trees are preferred in cultivation to avoid the odor. Often called a "living fossil," its morphology has remained largely unchanged for over 200 million years, with fossils dating back to the Permian period and the genus Ginkgo appearing in the . The taxonomic classification of places it in the kingdom Plantae (more precisely Eukaryota > ), class , reflecting its primitive status among seed plants as a that lacks cones but produces naked seeds. Historically, G. biloba was first described in Western science by the German physician in 1691 during his travels in , where it was cultivated in temple gardens; the name "ginkgo" derives from the Japanese ginkyo (silver ), and "biloba" from the Latin for its two-lobed leaves. Introduced to in the early and to the in 1785 by William Hamilton, it has since become widely planted worldwide for its ornamental value, resilience to urban , , and poor soils, and brilliant golden-yellow autumn foliage. Hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8, it thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy to loamy soils but tolerates a range of conditions, making it a popular street and landscape tree. Culturally significant in , Ginkgo biloba has been revered by Buddhist monks as a symbol of , resilience, and , with trees in Chinese temples dating back over 1,000 years; it survived atomic bombings in and , underscoring its hardiness. The leaves and seeds have been used in for centuries to treat ailments like and memory issues, though modern extracts are standardized for and lactones. Recent studies as of 2025 have shown associations with preserved and reduced progression in certain populations. Today, seedless male cultivars such as 'Autumn Gold' and 'Princeton Sentry' dominate to mitigate the mess from female fruit, which contains ginkgolic acids that can cause skin irritation. As a in botanical history, G. biloba provides invaluable insights into plant evolution and continues to be studied for its pharmacological potential and ecological adaptability.

Description

Morphology

Ginkgo biloba is a characterized by a straight central trunk and an overall height of 15 to 24 meters (50 to 80 feet) at maturity, with a spread of 9 to 12 meters (30 to 40 feet). Young trees exhibit a symmetrical pyramidal form with sparse branching, which transitions to a more open and irregular crown as the tree ages, often developing contorted branches. The bark on mature specimens is gray-brown, deeply furrowed, and forms prominent ridges, providing a textured appearance that becomes more pronounced with age. The leaves are distinctive fan-shaped structures, typically measuring 5 to 8 cm in length and width, with a flat that is often bilobed or irregularly notched at the apex. They feature open dichotomous venation, where veins fork repeatedly in pairs from the base without cross-connections, a pattern that emerges on short spur shoots in clusters and resembles the fronds of maidenhair ferns. During the , the leaves are bright green, turning vivid yellow in autumn before abscising en masse, creating a striking seasonal display. As a dioecious species, Ginkgo biloba has separate male and female trees; male individuals produce catkin-like pollen cones, approximately 2 to 3 cm long, on spur shoots in early spring. Female trees bear pairs of ovules on short pedicels measuring 4 to 5 cm, which develop into seeds if fertilized. Unlike most other gymnosperms, the secondary wood of Ginkgo biloba lacks resin canals and is non-resinous, consisting primarily of tracheids with uniseriate medullary rays, resulting in a lightweight and brittle structure. This anatomical feature distinguishes it from coniferous relatives like pines and spruces, which possess resin-producing canals for defense and durability.

Growth and Lifespan

displays a characteristically slow growth rate in its early years, averaging about 30 cm per year during the first two to three decades after establishment, before accelerating to approximately 60 cm annually as the tree enters maturity around 20 to 30 years of age. This gradual development contributes to the tree's robust structure, with young specimens often appearing sparse and columnar before filling out into a broader canopy. Full reproductive maturity, marked by consistent seed production, typically follows this period, though initial fruiting may take up to 20 years or longer. Several environmental factors influence the growth of , enhancing its adaptability across diverse conditions. The species exhibits broad soil tolerance, thriving in poor, compacted urban soils including clay, , , acidic, alkaline, and even occasionally wet substrates as long as drainage is adequate. Once established, it demonstrates high resistance, requiring minimal supplemental water in mature stages due to its deep . However, juvenile trees remain sensitive to frost, particularly late spring freezes that can damage emerging buds and young foliage, necessitating protective measures in colder climates during early years. is renowned for its exceptional longevity, with individuals commonly exceeding 1,000 years and some ancient specimens in reported to exceed 2,500 years old. This extended lifespan is supported by minimal , as evidenced by studies of vascular cambial cells in trees up to 700 years old, which show sustained mitotic activity, low accumulation of , and stable gene expression patterns indicative of a genetically resilient system. Unlike many species, Ginkgo exhibits negligible age-related decline in growth vigor, allowing ancient trees to maintain radial expansion and reproductive capacity without significant deterioration. The tree's regenerative capacity further bolsters its persistence, particularly through from basal shoots known as "chichi," which emerge from cotyledonary buds or root collars following damage, disturbance, or . These adventitious shoots can rapidly develop into vigorous new leaders, enabling clonal and recovery from environmental stresses such as or mechanical , a trait that has aided its survival as a "."

Taxonomy and Evolution

Phylogeny

is classified within the kingdom Plantae, division Ginkgophyta, class , order , family , Ginkgo, and it represents the sole extant in the . This monotypic status underscores its unique taxonomic isolation among seed plants. Phylogenetically, Ginkgo occupies a basal position among gymnosperms, forming a to cycads, with the combined Ginkgo-cycad diverging from and Gnetales around 300 million years ago. This relationship is supported by molecular analyses of chloroplast genes, including rbcL, and nuclear 18S rRNA sequences, which consistently place Ginkgo as an early-diverging lineage within gymnosperms. The genetic makeup of features a large of approximately 10.6 Gb and a haploid number of 12, reflecting its ancient evolutionary history with of two whole-genome duplications but relatively low levels of recent expansion compared to other seed plants. This genomic stability contributes to its distinctiveness, with around 41,840 annotated genes showing limited tandem duplications in key pathways. As the sole survivor of the family , represents a lineage from a once-diverse group that thrived during the era, with all other relatives extinct by the end of the . evidence briefly corroborates these phylogenetic branches, indicating a deep divergence consistent with molecular evidence.

Fossil Record

The order first appeared during the Permian period, approximately 280 million years ago, with early representatives such as Trichopitys exhibiting key characteristics like dichotomously branching leaves and axillary ovules. These gymnosperms underwent significant diversification during the era, particularly in the , , and , when they achieved high taxonomic diversity and morphological innovation across . Over 20 extinct species are recognized within from this period, based on vegetative and reproductive remains, though some estimates suggest up to dozens when accounting for form genera. Key fossil evidence includes leaf imprints assigned to Baiera, which are prominent from the and periods and feature fewer than four veins per segment, contrasting with the more derived Ginkgoites leaves from the that show more than four veins per segment. Reproductive structures provide further insight, such as the ovule-bearing organs described from the Yanliao Biota in northeastern , dating to around 170 million years ago in the ; these, including Yimaia recurva, reveal early ginkgo-like production with recurved bracts supporting multiple ovules. Such finds from sites like the Yima Formation highlight the group's reproductive during its peak. Ginkgoales began a marked decline in the mid-Cretaceous, around 100 million years ago, coinciding with the rise of angiosperms, though the order persisted into the with reduced diversity. The end-Cretaceous mass approximately 66 million years ago eliminated many relatives, but Ginkgo biloba endured due to its ecological resilience and adaptability to varying environments, including riparian habitats. By the , only a few species remained, confined to the . Fossil records demonstrate that Ginkgoales once had a across , with remains reported from , , and during the and early , including high-latitude sites like in the Early Eocene. This widespread presence underscores their former dominance before progressive restriction to .

Ecology and Distribution

Native Habitat

The ginkgo tree () is native to , with its few remaining wild populations confined to relict stands in southeastern and southwestern regions, such as provinces of and , particularly within the Tianmu Mountains, as well as in the Dalou Mountains spanning and provinces. These scattered populations, numbering only a few hundred mature trees in total, represent fragments of the ' original natural range and are primarily located in mountainous regions of at elevations between 300 and 1,000 meters above sea level. is classified as Endangered on the due to its small and declining wild populations. The native of ginkgo features a well-suited to its growth, with mild winters where minimum temperatures typically reach around -5°C, hot summers that can exceed 35°C, and annual rainfall ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 mm, often concentrated in the . This climatic regime supports the tree's habit and fan-shaped leaves, allowing it to thrive in environments with distinct seasonal changes. In these settings, ginkgo often occupies sun-exposed microsites along streamsides or on rocky slopes prone to disturbance, contributing to its persistence in otherwise dynamic forest ecosystems. Ginkgo exhibits strong adaptability to local conditions, preferring well-drained loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with values between 5 and 7, though it can tolerate compaction and moderate in its wild habitats near human settlements. Within these mixed forests, ginkgo co-occurs with a variety of broadleaf species, including oaks (Quercus spp.), maples (Acer spp.), and ferns, forming part of a diverse warm-temperate and evergreen community that enhances its .

Cultivation and Introduced Ranges

Ginkgo biloba has been cultivated in for over 1,000 years, with written records dating to the (11th century), though cultivation likely began earlier during the Period (220–280 CE) in the River valley. Initially propagated in temple groves by Buddhist monks, who revered the tree for its and spiritual significance, it spread northward and was valued for its edible seeds. From , the tree was introduced to Korea in the 6th century and to in the 7th century via monks, who planted it in temple and palace gardens. In , German physician first described the tree in 1712 after observing it in in 1691, with the first living specimens arriving in the around 1730. It reached the in 1784, when William Hamilton imported seeds to , planting the first trees there. Propagation of primarily occurs through seeds or vegetative methods to preserve desirable traits. Seeds require cold stratification for 30–60 days at 5°C to break and achieve rates exceeding 85% after soaking in 30°C water, typically sown in fall under for natural overwintering. , such as cleft grafting in July–August, yields high success rates up to 91% and is commonly used by nurseries to propagate male clones, ensuring uniformity and avoiding the production of . Hardwood cuttings from 1–3-year-old branches, treated with rooting hormones like IBA, also root effectively under , providing an alternative for clonal reproduction. Beyond its native range, is widely planted in urban environments worldwide for its tolerance to (including , nitrogen oxides, and ), salt, , and poor soils, making it a popular street tree. In the United States, it is established across over 30 states, particularly along the East Coast from to , with weakly naturalized populations reported in suburban woodlands and yards of the and Georgia where seeds occasionally establish near plantings. Notable urban examples include over 60,000 trees in and millions lining streets in , where it ranks as the most planted street tree in . In , it is common in 18 countries, often in parks and avenues. A key challenge in cultivation is the foul odor from the sarcotesta of female trees' fruits, which emit resembling rancid or vomit when crushed, leading most urban plantings to favor male clones to prevent mess and complaints.

Reproduction

Pollination and Fertilization

Ginkgo biloba exhibits dioecious reproduction, with separate male and female trees producing distinct reproductive structures. Male trees bear catkin-like pollen cones (microstrobili) on short shoots in spring, each consisting of microsporophylls that release from two microsporangia per sporophyll. These pollen grains are wind-dispersed (anemophilous) and lack insect vectors, a primitive trait among gymnosperms. Female trees produce pairs of ovules on long shoots, each with a fleshy that secretes a drop—a sugary, watery extruded from the micropyle to capture airborne . Upon landing in this drop, pollen grains are drawn into the ovular pollen chamber, where they germinate over about one week, initiating the development of a prothallial body that will later produce sperm cells. Fertilization in G. biloba is a remarkable process resembling siphonogamy in ferns but adapted for seed plants, featuring motile, multiflagellated sperm unique among extant gymnosperms (shared only with cycads and retained from ancestral non-seed plants). After pollination in spring, the male gametophyte within the ovule develops for several months without forming a true pollen tube; instead, two large sperm cells, each equipped with approximately 1,000 flagella arranged in three spiral coils, mature by late summer. These sperm are released into a fluid-filled fertilization chamber within the ovule. Motility is activated in this aqueous environment, allowing the multiflagellated sperm to swim short distances (about 0.2–0.5 mm) through the chamber toward the archegonia at the apex of the female gametophyte. One sperm penetrates the archegonium neck cells and fuses with the egg nucleus, completing double fertilization-like syngamy, while the second sperm typically degenerates. This swimming mechanism, termed zoogamy, occurs approximately 135–145 days after pollination, typically in late summer or early autumn, following a period of ovule dormancy and development. The dioecious nature of G. biloba strongly favors , enhancing in natural populations by requiring transfer between and female trees, often over distances aided by . However, in cultivated settings where vegetative propagation creates clonal stands, self-fertilization becomes possible if from a genetically identical clone reaches a female clone, though this is uncommon and may lead to reduced vigor due to . This reproductive strategy underscores Ginkgo's evolutionary retention of primitive traits while adapting to modern ecological contexts.

Seed Production and Dispersal

Following fertilization, which occurs in late summer or early autumn, the ovules on female trees undergo maturation over the summer, developing into naked without enclosure in a structure typical of angiosperms. This process culminates in seed ripeness from to , requiring an additional 40–50 days of after-ripening for full development. The mature are elliptic, ovoid, or subglobose, measuring 2.5–3.5 cm in length and 1.6–2.2 cm in width, with an outer fleshy layer known as the that turns orange-yellow and emits a pungent, rancid due to high concentrations of . Beneath this lies a hard, ridged sclerotesta shell that protects the pale reddish-brown endotesta, , and ; the is absent in male trees and serves no protective function in the wild. Seeds remain viable for up to two years when stored cold and moist, though viability declines rapidly without proper conditions. Female trees typically begin seed production around 20–40 years of age, with annual yields varying by tree age and environmental factors; for example, a 130-year-old tree may produce 150–250 kg of seeds, with a maximum recorded output of 600 kg per tree. Seed dispersal occurs primarily through gravity, with seeds falling directly beneath the and achieving a mean dispersal distance of about 462 m via rolling or flow, though animal-mediated secondary dispersal plays a role. Rodents and carnivorans, such as leopard cats and masked palm civets, consume the —removing its odorous layer—and cache the cleaned seeds, aiding ; birds largely avoid the foul-smelling seeds. In cultivated settings, human activities, including collection and planting, significantly enhance dispersal beyond natural mechanisms.

Uses

Medicinal Applications

Ginkgo biloba, particularly its leaf extracts, has been utilized in medicinal contexts due to its bioactive compounds, primarily and . The standardized extract EGb 761 contains approximately 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpenoid lactones, including ginkgolides A, B, and C, as well as bilobalide, which contribute to its and vasodilatory properties. In (TCM), has been employed since at least the Eastern , as documented in the Shennong Bencao Jing (circa 200 AD), for conditions such as , , and circulatory issues. Historical TCM texts classify it as a that promotes blood circulation and relieves and wheezing, with applications dating back over 2,000 years. Modern clinical research has focused on EGb 761 for cognitive and vascular disorders. Meta-analyses indicate that extract provides mild benefits in cognitive function for patients with mild , improving scores on standardized tests such as the Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale by approximately 2.86 points compared to after 24 weeks. For , randomized trials demonstrate an increase in pain-free walking distance by about 34 meters with daily doses of 120 mg EGb 761, attributed to enhanced peripheral blood flow. Adverse effects are generally mild, including and gastrointestinal upset, but carries a rare risk of bleeding, particularly when combined with anticoagulants like , due to its inhibition of platelet-activating factor. In the United States, the FDA regulates products as dietary supplements rather than drugs, requiring no pre-market approval for or claims beyond structure-function statements. Ongoing research highlights gaps, with inconsistent results for tinnitus relief—some trials show no significant improvement over placebo—and limited evidence for preventing acute mountain sickness, where prophylactic use fails to reduce symptom incidence reliably. As of 2025, recent meta-analyses indicate that EGb 761 may lower the incidence of all-cause and slow progression in mild cases.

Culinary and Other Uses

The seeds of Ginkgo biloba, known as ginkgo nuts or gin nan in Japanese, are a traditional ingredient in East Asian cuisine, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan, where they are often roasted and incorporated into dishes such as soups, stir-fries, and steamed custards like chawanmushi. These nuts provide a nutritional profile rich in protein, carbohydrates, and B vitamins, including approximately 0.33 mg of vitamin B6 per 100 g of raw nuts, contributing to energy metabolism. However, raw ginkgo nuts contain ginkgotoxins, such as 4'-O-methylpyridoxine, which can cause severe symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and seizures if consumed in excess. To mitigate toxicity, ginkgo nuts must be properly prepared by , , or microwaving, processes that partially denature the harmful compounds. To avoid , intake should be limited to a few cooked nuts per day for adults, as consuming around 10 or more may cause ; children are more susceptible and should consume even fewer. The fleshy outer seed coat, which has a foul odor, is discarded before preparation. Ginkgo leaves are occasionally used to brew as a mild beverage for everyday consumption, though they are not considered a primary source and are more commonly associated with infusions. Beyond culinary applications, ginkgo wood is soft yet durable, making it suitable for small-scale carving of utensils and ornaments, though it lacks the strength for large commercial uses. Additionally, ginkgo leaves possess natural insect-repellent properties due to compounds that deter pests, fungi, and , contributing to the tree's resilience in urban environments.

Etymology and Cultural Significance

Name Origin

The name "Ginkgo" derives from the Japanese term ginkyō (銀杏), meaning "silver apricot," which itself is a transliteration and slight corruption of the original Chinese name yīnxìng (銀杏), referring to the tree's silvery seed coat and apricot-like seeds. This nomenclature was first introduced to Western by the German botanist in his 1712 publication Amoenitatum Exoticarum, where he recorded the plant as "Ginkgo" based on his observations in in 1691, adapting the local while preserving the Chinese characters. Kaempfer's , with its characteristic "gk" cluster, persisted despite later attempts to anglicize it, such as "ginkgo" without the silent 'k,' establishing the usage. The scientific binomial Ginkgo biloba was formally assigned by in his 1771 work Mantissa Plantarum 2, where "biloba" describes the distinctive two-lobed shape of the fan-like leaves, a feature that distinguishes the within the . The name Ginkgo was retained from Kaempfer, honoring its East Asian linguistic roots, while biloba provided a descriptive Latin element in line with Linnaean conventions. In historical Chinese texts dating back over a millennium, the tree was referred to as bái guǒ (白果), or "white fruit," alluding to the pale, fleshy outer layer of its seeds. This term underscores the plant's long-standing recognition in and , predating its Western by centuries. In English, no distinct common name emerged beyond "ginkgo" or the poetic "maidenhair tree," the latter evoking a resemblance to the fern Adiantum capillus-veneris due to the leaves' delicate, forked venation; these vernacular names directly stem from the binomial and have been standardized in modern taxonomy without significant variation.

Symbolism in Culture

In East Asian cultures, the ginkgo tree embodies longevity and resilience, with its enduring presence in temples dating back to the (618–907 CE) in , where it was planted as a symbol of vitality and harmony with nature. In , the tree holds sacred status within traditions, representing unyielding strength and peace, and is commonly associated with shrines that highlight its role as a spiritual guardian. This symbolism is vividly illustrated by the six ginkgo trees that survived the 1945 atomic bombing of , their regrowth from scorched trunks serving as enduring emblems of hope amid destruction. In Western traditions, the ginkgo evokes themes of unity and perseverance, notably through Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's 1815 poem "," which draws on the leaf's divided yet singular form to metaphorically capture the dual nature of love and human connection. Urban landscapes further amplify this, as seen in New York City's widespread planting of ginkgo-lined streets and avenues, such as the allée at , where the trees stand as resilient fixtures blending prehistoric legacy with contemporary endurance against city stressors. Today, the ginkgo functions as a modern emblem of environmental fortitude, prized in urban greening initiatives for its ability to thrive amid , compacted soils, and heat, thereby fostering sustainable cityscapes. Its fan-shaped leaves inspire artistic expressions, appearing in flowing motifs that echo the organic elegance of designs, where the tree's form symbolizes graceful adaptation. The tree's revered cultural role has bolstered conservation, particularly through temple protections in that safeguard ancient specimens, indirectly supporting the maintenance of small, genetically diverse wild populations in southwestern regions like the Dalou Mountains.

References

  1. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/taxonomy/3311
  2. https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/ginkgo-biloba
  3. https://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=122
  4. https://hgic.clemson.edu/the-history-of-the-ginkgo-tree/
  5. https://arboretum.harvard.edu/plant-bios/ginkgo/
  6. https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/seedplants/ginkgoales/ginkgofr.html
  7. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST273
  8. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ginkgo-biloba/
  9. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ginkgo
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/
  11. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12395342/
  12. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/15/1/12
  13. https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/32646
  14. https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/seedplants/ginkgoales/ginkgomm.html
  15. https://www.wood-database.com/ginkgo/
  16. https://ucanr.edu/site/uc-master-gardeners-napa-county/tree-41-ginkgo
  17. https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/trees/GINBILA.pdf
  18. https://www.mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/ginkgo/
  19. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/ginkgo-or-maidenhair-tree/
  20. https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-51063469
  21. https://research.unt.edu/news/secret-longevity-ginkgo-biloba-trees.html
  22. https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2745.13856
  23. https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.158473/Ginkgo_biloba
  24. https://www.gbif.org/species/113553317
  25. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3595029/
  26. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Molecular-phylogeny-of-extant-gymnosperms-and-seed-Chaw-Zharkikh/e097eed6b9883e0ff650dc2e69c76070b3fe5c44
  27. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5118899/
  28. https://ginkgo.zju.edu.cn/genome/
  29. https://academic.oup.com/gigascience/article/5/1/s13742-016-0154-1/2737429
  30. https://bsapubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3732/ajb.1200168
  31. https://www.palaeobotany.org/index.php/living-fossils/gingko-biloba-its-ancestors-and-allies/
  32. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1871174X0900002X
  33. https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ppp3.7
  34. https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/14/12/2284
  35. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41918/86231671
  36. https://arboretum.harvard.edu/arnoldia-stories/wake-up-and-smell-the-ginkgos/
  37. https://www.fs.usda.gov/nsl/Wpsm/Ginkgo.pdf
  38. http://www.namethatplant.net/plantdetail.shtml?plant=2742
  39. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07352689.2023.2235173
  40. https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.17753
  41. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16736257/
  42. https://arboretum.harvard.edu/stories/stop-and-smell-the-ginkgo-seeds/
  43. https://www.treeshrubseeds.com/mobile/specieslist?id=736&ID2=0&g=g&s=1
  44. https://www.academia.edu/7719246/Biology_and_chemistry_of_Ginkgo_biloba
  45. https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10545
  46. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6478001/
  47. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16400219/
  48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25114079/
  49. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002934399004544
  50. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-ginkgo/art-20362032
  51. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6104799/
  52. https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbclip/issues/2025/issue-759/ginkgo-biloba-mild-dementia/
  53. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8901348/
  54. https://foodstruct.com/food/ginkgo-nuts
  55. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6373469/
  56. https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/multimedia/multimedia_pub/multimedia_pub_fsf_204_02.html
  57. https://www.republicoftea.com/blog/tea-culture/9-ginkgo-biloba-tea-benefits/tc-038/
  58. https://kwanten.home.xs4all.nl/name.htm
  59. http://legacy.tropicos.org/Name/14100001
  60. https://classicalchinesemedicine.org/ginkgo-cultural-background-medicinal-usage/
  61. https://www.japan-experience.com/preparer-voyage/savoir/comprendre-le-japon/ginkgo-arbre-sacre-aux-feuilles-d-or
  62. https://www.obga.ox.ac.uk/article/seeds-from-hiroshima-atomic-bomb-survivor-trees-planted-at-oxford-botanic-garden
  63. https://www.themarginalian.org/2025/09/23/ginkgo/
  64. https://www.bbg.org/collections/gardens/ginkgo_allee
  65. https://www.nybg.org/blogs/plant-talk/2011/12/around-the-garden/a-living-fossil-in-new-york/
  66. https://localgardener.org/the-ginkgo-tree-living-fossils-and-symbols-of-resilience/
  67. https://www.artdecowebstore.com/364/blog/152/ginkgo-motifs/
  68. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/ginkgo-trees-nearly-went-extinct-how-we-saved-these-living-fossils
  69. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230589185_Evidence_for_the_persistence_of_wild_Ginkgo_biloba_Ginkgoaceae_populations_in_the_Dalou_Mountains_southwestern_China
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.