ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

First place champion Ginkgo in Canon City at Holycross Abbey, planted in 1922 by Father Michael.

Species info:

Leaves: Simple, alternate or in clusters on short spur shoots; fan-shaped with parallel veins and a distinct notch or cleft (bilobed) at the center. Up to 3 inches wide with a 3-inch petiole. Light green in summer, turning bright golden-yellow in fall.

Leaflets: None (simple leaf).

Leaf Surface: Smooth and leathery; slightly ribbed texture with visible vein lines.

Bark: Light brown to gray-brown; deeply furrowed and highly ridged with age, giving a rugged, corky appearance.

Flowers: Inconspicuous; male flowers borne in catkin-like clusters, female flowers in pairs on stalks.

Fruit: ¾–1½ inch fleshy, tan-colored fruit on female trees; produces a strong, rancid odor when ripe. Only male cultivars should be planted to avoid this issue.

Botanical: Ginkgo biloba

Family: Ginkgoaceae

Mature Height: 50–65 feet (occasionally up to 75 feet)

Canopy Spread: 25–35 feet (occasionally wider)

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Pyramidal and columnar when young, broadening with age to irregularly spreading form

Growth Rate: Moderate (12–18 inches per year once established)

Fruit: Female trees produce smelly fruit

Fall Color: Bright yellow

Water Use: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established

Hardiness: Zones 4–9

Soil Preference: Adaptable to most soil types, including poor, compacted, or alkaline soils; best in well-drained sites

Wildlife Value: Limited food value; occasional use by birds for shelter

Pests/Pathogens: Virtually pest-free; extremely resistant to air pollution, drought, heat, and ice damage

Planting Recommendations: Recommended for most sites along the Front Range; slow to establish

Information Sources:

• Front Range Tree Recommendation List

• Michael A. Dirr. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees & Shrubs. Timber Press. 2011.