Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as the "Ginkgo" or "Maidenhair Tree," is one of the oldest living tree species on Earth, with a history dating back over 250 million years. This ancient plant has survived through multiple mass extinctions and remains a symbol of resilience. Native to China, it is often referred to as the "Old God Tree" in local dialects. Its scientific name, *Ginkgo biloba*, means "two-lobed leaf," which refers to its distinctive fan-shaped leaves that split into two lobes at the tip.
The Ginkgo tree is a gymnosperm, meaning it produces seeds without flowers. It is a deciduous tree, typically reaching heights of up to 40 meters. The bark is grayish-brown with deep furrows, and its canopy is broadly ovate. Ginkgo trees have both long and short branches, with leaves growing alternately on long branches and clustered on short ones. The leaves are fan-shaped, with a unique bifurcated venation pattern, and they turn a brilliant golden color in autumn.
Ginkgo biloba is dioecious, meaning male and female trees are separate. It blooms in spring, with pollination occurring via wind. The fruit, which resembles an apricot, is orange-yellow when ripe and contains a fleshy outer layer that can be smelly. Inside, there is a hard seed used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. However, the seeds contain small amounts of toxic compounds, so they should be consumed with caution.
One of the most remarkable features of Ginkgo biloba is its longevity. Some trees are over 3,000 years old, such as the famous ginkgo in Dinglin Temple, Shandong Province, which is believed to date back to the Shang Dynasty. These ancient trees continue to thrive, producing foliage and fruit even after centuries of growth.
Ginkgo trees are also known for their adaptability. They can grow in a wide range of soils and climates, tolerating pollution, drought, and even fire. Their resistance to pests and diseases makes them ideal for urban environments. In addition to their ornamental value, Ginkgo trees are used in landscaping, as street trees, and for windbreaks. They provide cooling shade and are considered one of China's four major long-lived ornamental trees, along with pines, cypresses, and junipers.
Historically, China has been the center of Ginkgo cultivation, with the highest diversity of varieties. There are many cultivars, including yellow-leaf ginkgo, weeping ginkgo, and split-leaf ginkgo. Although Ginkgo biloba was once widespread across the northern hemisphere, it nearly disappeared due to glacial periods. Only in China did it survive, earning it the title of "living fossil" and "plant panda."
Today, Ginkgo biloba is widely cultivated around the world, but all foreign populations trace their origin back to China. Its wood is light, soft, and easy to carve, making it valuable for furniture and crafts. The seeds are used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a food source, while the leaves are rich in flavonoids and are used in herbal remedies.
In summary, Ginkgo biloba is not only a botanical marvel but also a cultural and economic treasure. Its long lifespan, beauty, and versatility make it a cherished tree in gardens, cities, and forests worldwide.
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