How to Grow Ginkgo
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Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba
treeGinkgo is an ancient deciduous tree with distinctive fan-shaped leaves that turn brilliant golden-yellow in fall. It is one of the oldest living tree species and is highly valued as an ornamental and medicinal plant. The tree is extremely hardy, pollution-tolerant, and can live for hundreds of years.
When should you plant Ginkgo in your zone?
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Example Ginkgo timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ginkgo
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ginkgo
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ginkgo dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Get my Ginkgo timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling/Young Sapling
3-5 yearsSlow-growing young tree with initial leafy growth; develops central leader and branching structure
Water regularly during establishment (first 2-3 years). Mulch around base. Stake if in windy location. Prune to develop strong central leader.
Juvenile Growth
5-15 yearsTree develops characteristic branching pattern and fan-shaped leaves become more prominent
Reduce watering frequency as roots establish. Remove lower branches if desired. Minimal pruning needed.
Vegetative Maturation
10-25 yearsTree reaches ornamental size with full branching structure and dense foliage canopy
Maintain deep watering during dry periods. Remove dead or crossing branches. Shape as needed for desired form.
Reproductive/Mature
25+ yearsTree produces small greenish flowers (dioecious; males preferred for landscapes due to foul-smelling female fruit)
If female tree, consider removal of fruit or manage odor. Male trees require no special care. Continue periodic pruning.
Fall Display/Senescence
4-6 weeks (seasonal)Leaves turn brilliant golden-yellow and drop rapidly, providing spectacular seasonal color
Enjoy the fall foliage display. Clean up fallen leaves for tidiness. Trees remain bare 4-5 months.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for leaf damage; remove affected leaves; generally not severely damaging; insecticidal soap in severe cases
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticides if severe; ensure adequate humidity
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Prune out heavily infested branches; use horticultural oil spray during dormant season
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Hand-pick beetles; use Japanese beetle traps; apply neem oil for heavy infestations
Uses
Cognitive Enhancement and Circulation
MedicinalGinkgo leaf extract is widely used in traditional and modern herbal medicine to improve blood circulation, enhance memory, and support cognitive function. Studies have examined its potential effects on age-related cognitive decline. [source]
Ginkgo Nuts (Seeds)
CulinaryThe kernels of ginkgo seeds, called ginkgo nuts, are consumed in Asian cuisine as a delicacy. They are often roasted and used in soups, stir-fries, and as a garnish, prized for their mild flavor and texture. [source]
Landscape & Urban Tree
OrnamentalGinkgo is prized as an ornamental tree for its unique fan-shaped foliage, stunning golden fall color, pollution tolerance, and exceptional longevity. It is ideal for urban landscapes and street plantings. [source]
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant
MedicinalGinkgo leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional medicine uses it to support respiratory health and reduce inflammation. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeMature ginkgo trees provide shelter and food for birds and beneficial insects, supporting urban biodiversity despite their non-native status in most regions. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Ginkgo is not typically harvested for culinary purposes. For medicinal use, leaves are harvested in fall when they turn yellow and begin to drop. Dry leaves thoroughly before use. Seeds (from female trees) have hard shells that must be cracked; the kernel inside is edible after roasting but the fruit flesh has an extremely unpleasant odor.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ginkgo biloba is a 'living fossil,' virtually unchanged for over 200 million years and the sole survivor of its genus. It is the oldest living tree species with fossil records dating back 270 million years.
- 🌱 The name 'biloba' refers to the distinctive two-lobed or bilobed fan-shaped leaves, which are unique among modern trees and instantly recognizable.
- 🌱 Ginkgo trees survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945 and are still growing at the site today, making them symbols of resilience and peace in Japanese culture.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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