Leaf Identification

The Ginkgo has distinctive two-lobed, fan-shaped leaves with parallel veins. They are a bright green and turn a brilliant yellow in the fall.

Twig and Bud Identification

Ginkgo twigs are zig zag, maturing to a light gray color with vertical grooves and few to no lenticels. Buds are globular with broad scales at the base. In the winter, the buds turn reddish brown.

Bark Identification

The Ginkgo has light gray bark that fissures with maturity.

Cone and “Fruit” Identification

The “fruit” of the Ginkgo are apricot-colored, fleshy seed covers with silvery casts. They are messy and produce a repugnant odor. Since these trees are not true flowering plants, the “fruit” only grows on female trees and are not considered an actual fruit. Males produce pollen cones.

[photo forthcoming]

‘Saratoga’ Identification

The ‘Saratoga’ variety grows slower, is more narrow and pendulous, and is a more yellow/green color compared to the traditional tree.

[photo forthcoming]

‘Autumn Gold’ Identification

The ‘Autumn Gold’ variety has a brilliant gold color in the fall. These trees are shorter than wild-type ginkgos, only reaching 50′ at very tallest. It is an all-male cultivar, meaning that no “fruit” will be produced.

[photo forthcoming]