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Gingko

Ginkgo, native to China, is a unique species with no close living relatives. Ginkgos are large, deciduous trees capable of reaching 115 feet at maturity. They grow best in well-drained and well-watered areas, but can adapt to urban environments tolerating pollution and confined soil space. There are male and female ginkgo trees, but the females are rarely planted because they produce seeds that contain butyric acid that smells like rancid butter. Extract of ginkgo leaves contain medicinal properties that are taken as supplements to aid in memory and concentration.

ginkgo tree when green Close-up of a green leaf. Leaves are 3 to 4 inches wide with a leathery, waxed layer on both sides. bark is brownish-gray in color, deeply ridged with a corky texture in the fall, leaves turn a bright yellow, then fall within 1 to 15 days ginkgo tree that has turned yellow in fall