Ginkgo Biloba

• Native to China, this ancient tree species has survived ice ages and mass extinctions virtually unchanged for 200 million years. Often called a living fossil, it's the sole survivor of an ancient plant family.
• Features distinctive fan-shaped leaves that turn spectacular golden-yellow in autumn before dropping. The unique leaf shape and texture make it instantly recognisable in any landscape.
• Extremely long-lived and slow-growing, potentially reaching 1000+ years of age. Can grow 20-35 metres tall with a broad, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade.
• Highly valued for its exceptional hardiness, pollution tolerance, and resistance to pests and diseases. Used extensively in urban landscapes worldwide for these qualities.

• Water deeply once weekly during growing season, reducing to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering to avoid overwatering.
• Provide full sun to partial shade position with well-draining soil. Tolerates poor soils but grows faster in fertile, slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
• Apply slow-release fertiliser in early spring and compost mulch around base. Additional feeding generally not required once established.
• Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain desired shape. Minimal pruning needed as naturally develops good structure.
• Increase watering during hot Australian summers and reduce in cooler months. Established trees are very drought tolerant.

• Plant in full sun to partial shade for best growth and autumn colour development. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot Australian climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Young trees need regular watering for first 2-3 years.
• Thrives in temperatures from -15°C to 35°C, making it suitable for most Australian climate zones. Protect from strong winds in exposed locations.
• Apply slow-release fertiliser in early spring and mulch around base to retain moisture. Prune in late winter to maintain shape if needed.

• Scale insects can attach to branches and leaves, causing yellowing. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applied every 2 weeks until resolved.
• Leaf scorch occurs in extremely hot, dry conditions or poor soil drainage. Ensure adequate watering during heat waves and improve soil drainage with organic matter.
• Root rot develops from overwatering or waterlogged soil. Reduce watering frequency and improve drainage by adding coarse sand or gravel to planting area.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth in spring. Spray off with strong water jet or apply neem oil weekly until population decreases.