Plant Profile

Ginkgo Biloba / Maidenhair Tree

About Ginkgo Biloba

  • Botanical Name: Ginkgo biloba
  • Common Name: Ginkgo Biloba / Maidenhair Tree
  • Family: Ginkgoaceae
  • Germination: 4 to 5 weeks
  • Hardiness: Drought-tolerant
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Medicinal: Yes
  • Sunlight: Full sun
  • Non-GMO
  • Plant Food: FoxFarm Big Bloom for Organic Gardening
  • Size: Up to 100 feet tall and 40 feet wide
  • Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

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Companion Plants for Ginkgo Biloba

Good companions for the Ginkgo tree include roses as they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies that feed on their sweet nectar, which in turn helps them thrive by providing more food. The rose's roots also help improve drainage around your ginkgo tree root system while adding an aesthetic touch to the area under or near it.30

Harvesting Ginkgo Biloba

Harvesting ginkgo tree leaves is simple but requires patience and attention to detail for the best results. Follow these steps: 1) Choose a suitable time of year - The ideal time to pick ginkgo leaves depends on your region's climate, as cooler temperatures (usually in spring or late autumn) will result in sweeter-tasting foliage. In some regions, trees may not produce new leaf growth every season, so you might need to wait until the next year for fresh leaves. 2) Select a tree - Look out for healthy ginkgo trees that show signs of good health and vigorous growth. Avoid picking from stressed or diseased-looking specimens. If possible, pick only branches with an abundance of foliage on them.30

Nutritional Data for Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba contains high levels of vitamin B12, flavonoids, antioxidants, and terpenes that possess anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves also have a good amount of iron (5mg) which is 8% of the daily recommended value for adults. Other nutrients in smaller amounts include calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, manganese, vitamin C and K, carotene, and choline.30

Selection & Storage

To preserve the potency of Ginkgo Biloba leaves for use in teas or other recipes, follow these storage guidelines: 1. Dry them completely before putting them away. You can do this by air drying (hanging outside on a sunny day) or using an oven at its lowest temperature setting with the door slightly open to prevent scorching. Ensure that they are fully dried; if they still feel damp, continue air drying until they're crisp and brittle. 2. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness for extended periods of time. Dark glass jars or plastic bags with zippers (but not open-topped) work well as long as the leaves aren't exposed to air, moisture, or sunlight.30

Tips For Using Ginkgo Biloba

Health Benefits

Ginkgo biloba (maidenhair tree) has been used for over 200 years as an herbal remedy to treat various disorders, including cognitive impairment. The extract from ginkgo leaves contains flavonoids and terpenoids that have antioxidant properties and can protect the brain against oxidative stress. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve memory performance in people with Alzheimer's disease by increasing blood flow to the brain and reducing inflammation.

Additionally, ginkgo may help reduce symptoms of tinnitus (ringing in the ears) caused by cerebral ischemia or stroke and prevent hearing loss due to its anti-inflammatory properties.30

Medical Disclaimer

Bounty Gardens is strictly an information website about gardening and wellness topics. It is not intended for medical advice. It does not take the place of medical advice or treatment from a physician. Readers should consult their own doctor or a qualified healthcare professional for specific health concerns and questions. Bounty Gardens does not recommend or endorse any products.