Gingko Biloba Tree – 2 Seeds

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or gingko, also known as the maidenhair tree, is a species of tree native to China. Gingko leaf extract is commonly used as a dietary supplement. Ginkgos are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees. Male trees produce pollen cones, while female trees bear ovules. Neither is showy like a typical flowering plant, but the process of producing reproductive structures is a form of flowering.

After pollination, the ovules on female trees develop into seeds enclosed in a fleshy, fruit-like structure. This structure is commonly called a ginkgo fruit. The fleshy outer part of the ginkgo fruit is not edible and has a highly offensive smell and can cause an allergic skin reaction. The fleshy outer fruit should not be eaten. However, the seed (often referred to as the ginkgo nut) found inside the fruit is edible after it is properly cooked, and is considered a delicacy in many Asian cuisines, but must be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption, especially of raw nuts, can be toxic.

It tolerates most soil types and shows good resistance to pollution and pest attack.

Gingko Biloba Uses

Ginkgo biloba is an herb used to treat altitude sickness (prevention), cerebral vascular insufficiency, cognitive disorders, dementia, dizziness/vertigo, intermittent claudication, macular degeneration/glaucoma, memory loss, premenstrual syndrome, SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, and as a vasodilator.

Growing Gingko Biloba

Indoor Sowing: Cold Stratification and then transplant seedlings when big enough.

Direct Sowing: Autumn and Early Winter.

• Put moistened horticultural sand, a sand and perlite mixture, peat moss or vermiculite in a container or a ziplock bag.
• Scarify the seed coat.
• Add the seeds to the soil and place the seeds in the refrigerator for 3 months.
• After the 3 month stratification period, plant the seeds shallowly in individual pots. Cover the pots with a clear plastic bag.
• Place the pots in a warm location.
• Keep the medium moderately moist.
• Please Note: It is extremely difficult to get the seeds to germinate, as germination is very erratic and it can take several months before the seeds germinate.
• Remove the bags once you see sprouts.
• Can be grown in Containers.