In the mood of Park Egmont
Identity
Category :
Arbre remarquable
Latin name :
Ginkgo biloba
French name :
Ginkgo biloba
Dutch name :
Japanse notenboom
English name :
Maidenhair tree
Family :
Ginkgoaceae
Height :
20 m
Targeted height :
This species can grow up to 30 m
Diameter of the crown :
18 m
Trunk circumference :
327 cm
Expected circumference :
500 cm
Expected longevity :
Can live for more than 1000 years
Origin / Indigenous
Asia, south-west China
Favorite soil :
All
Favorite climate
Rather hot, humid to temperate, but acclimatising to the Belgian climate
Collection of the Belgian State, permanent loan to the Meise Botanic Garden: Von Siebold, Flora Japonica, pl. 136
Features and characters of the individual
This ginkgo is a beautiful example of a Brussels : he is the 6th largest of his species in the Region. In this tree everything turns into gold. In October-November, its leaves shine as everything turns grey. When its leaves are carried away by autumn winds, they transform the grass into a golden carpet. Ginkgoes have the reputation for being incredibly resistant, to pollution, radiation, viruses: they are true forces of nature. They have witnessed the evolution of our planet since the dinosaurs’ era. The Chinese and Japanese consider them sacred trees, symbols of immortality. Yet, despite his young age, this tree is already showing signs of stress and weakness. The ground at his foot is probably too compact. Many visitors lie down or have a picnic in its summer. If you visit him, don't get too close to the trunk: it will live longer.
This webpage is enriched with an illustration from the Belgian Federal State Collection on permanent loan to the Meise Botanical Garden. See attached. Thanks to the library (heritage collection) for this contribution. https://www.plantentuinmeise.be/en/home/
