Ginkgo is a gymnosperm and the oldest known living tree in the world.(28) The ginkgo tree has not changed significantly since the Triassic period.(1) This deciduous tree has grey bark and grows to a height of up to 130 feet with a spread of 60 feet.(2,32) Its leaves are fan-like, two-lobed, and turn yellow in the fall.(2) Growers harvest the leaves of 6-8 year old trees in the fall, just as they are starting to turn yellow.(32) Some growers prune the trees to shrub height and use mechanical picking devices.(4)

At maturity (about 30 years), male trees produce naked pairs of anther-like stamen in catkin clusters while female trees bear a naked ovule. When fertilized, the ovule develops into two seeds with a foul-smelling, fleshy outer layer and a hard inner layer.(2) The nut is edible, with a bitter seed coat.(1)

The ginkgo tree is tolerant of pollution,(28) but prefers a rich, well-drained soil and full sun.(32) Because of their beauty, ginkgo trees are often added to landscapes, though male trees predominate.(32) Ginkgo trees are relatively resistant to pests. Ginkgo’s resistance to mutagenic toxins has led researchers to investigate its antioxidant properties.(19)