Ginkgo biloba - seeds

The seeds are available all year round, packaged in waterproof doypack bags.

Ginkgo Biloba is a unique plant, often called the "forty tree" or "living fossil" because of its long history dating back to the age of dinosaurs. This tree is the only surviving member of the Ginkgoaceae family, making it a true relic of the past.

Botanical Description

Ginkgo Biloba is a perennial tree, meaning that it lives and continues to grow year after year. It can reach an impressive height, up to 30 meters or more. Its instantly recognizable leaves have a characteristic fan shape and turn a bright yellow in autumn, offering a striking visual spectacle.

Uses of Ginkgo Biloba

• Cognitive Well-Being: Ginkgo leaves contain active compounds such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which are being explored for their potential to support certain brain functions, such as memory and concentration. However, it is crucial to note that not all potential benefits are definitively proven by science.
• Resistance in Urban Environment: Thanks to its ability to tolerate pollution and harsh conditions, Ginkgo is often planted in cities where it contributes to greenery and air purification.
• Ornamental Use: Ginkgo is also appreciated for its aesthetics, particularly in autumn when its leaves take on a bright yellow color.
• Food Supplements: Ginkgo extracts are sometimes used in food supplements, although it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using them, especially for young people.

Interestingly, despite its status as a living fossil, there are no other living plants in the Ginkgoaceae family to compare Ginkgo Biloba to. This adds to its unique and mysterious character.

To grow Ginkgo biloba, here are some essential tips:

• Soil: Ginkgo appreciates deep, well-drained soil, which can be slightly acidic to neutral.
• Exposure: It thrives in full sun, but also tolerates partial shade.
• Watering: Although it is drought tolerant once established, regular watering promotes its initial growth.
• Temperature: Ginkgo can withstand wide temperature variations, but it ideally grows between 20 and 30°C.
• Hardiness: This tree is very resistant to cold and can survive temperatures well below 0°C.

Fruiting can take several decades, with both male and female Ginkgo trees needed to produce fruit.

Origin of the name: "Ginkgo" probably comes from a bad transcription of the Japanese word "gin kyo", meaning "silver apricot", referring to the appearance of its fruits.

Hiroshima survivor: In Asia, the Ginkgo is a symbol of life and resilience, particularly because it survived the bombing of Hiroshima, resuming its growth the following spring.

Botanical family: Ginkgo biloba is the only current representative of the Ginkgoaceae family, a lineage of trees dating back more than 270 million years.

Symbolism: In China, Ginkgo is often planted near temples and is associated with longevity and vitality, seen as a link between past and present.

Longevity: Ginkgo trees can live up to 1000 years, or even 4000 years for certain specimens, testifying to their incredible ability to endure through the ages.

Dioecious: Ginkgo biloba is a dioecious plant, meaning there are separate male and female trees. Female trees produce fruit that gives off a strong, unpleasant odor.

Medicinal properties: Its leaves contain beneficial compounds like flavonoids and terpenoids, used to improve blood circulation and cognitive functions, although scientific evidence for these effects is variable.

Use in herbal medicine: Ginkgo biloba has been used for millennia in Asia for its medicinal properties, and its use spread to Europe between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Exceptional resistance: Ginkgo biloba is extremely resistant to disease, insects and pollution, making it a popular choice for urban landscaping.

Nickname "Tree of forty écus": This nickname comes from an anecdote according to which a French botanist paid a considerable sum, i.e. 40 écus, to obtain a specimen of Ginkgo in the 18th century, emphasizing the value and rarity of this tree. the time in Europe.

Q: How to prepare Ginkgo Biloba seeds for planting?

A: To prepare Ginkgo Biloba seeds, it is recommended to clean them thoroughly to remove the pulp, then stratify them by placing them in a cool, humid place for a few weeks. This step simulates winter conditions and helps break seed dormancy.

Q: What type of soil is best for planting Ginkgo Biloba seeds?

A: Ginkgo Biloba seeds thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Make sure the soil is rich in organic matter to encourage good growth.

Q: When is the best time to sow Ginkgo Biloba seeds?

A: The best time to sow Ginkgo Biloba seeds is in spring, after the last frost. This gives the seeds all summer to germinate and grow.

Q: How often should you water young Ginkgo Biloba plants?

A: Young Ginkgo Biloba plants require regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Reduce watering frequency once the plant is established.

Q: What exposure is ideal for growing Ginkgo Biloba from seed?

A: Ginkgo Biloba seeds germinate best and young plants grow well in full sun to partial shade. Good exposure to sunlight promotes vigorous growth.

Q: How long does it take for Ginkgo Biloba seeds to germinate?

A: Ginkgo Biloba seeds can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to germinate. Patience is key, as germination rates can vary.

Q: Do Ginkgo Biloba seeds require special treatment before planting?

A: Yes, it is often recommended to stratify Ginkgo Biloba seeds, which involves exposing them to a period of cold to stimulate germination.

Q: Is Ginkgo Biloba resistant to cold?

A: Yes, Ginkgo Biloba is very cold hardy and can survive temperatures well below freezing once established.

Q: When can you expect to see the first foliage on a young Ginkgo Biloba?

A: The first foliage on a young Ginkgo Biloba usually appears in the spring after the seeds have germinated, but this can vary depending on growing conditions.

Q: When do Ginkgo Biloba trees start producing fruit?

A: Ginkgo Biloba trees can begin producing fruit after reaching sexual maturity, which can take 20 to 35 years or more, depending on growing conditions.

Sustainable Cultivation of Ginkgo Biloba at Legba

At Legba, we take an eco-friendly approach to growing Ginkgo Biloba seeds. We favor a natural balance between beneficials and pests, thus promoting a healthy ecosystem. Our commitment is manifested in the exclusive use of rainwater, avoiding any use of chemical products, including those certified organic. This method not only supports the vitality of our plants but also contributes to the preservation of our planet.

Regarding legislation in France, Ginkgo Biloba seeds, like all seeds, are governed by strict standards which ensure their quality and compliance. Legba scrupulously respects these regulations, thus guaranteeing the legality and safety of our products for our customers. Before any use or purchase, we advise you to inform yourself about the regulatory precautions specific to your region.

At Legba, we are convinced that the choice of quality seeds and the cultivation method have a direct impact on the growth and health of the plants. We are committed to providing our customers not only with excellent products but also with all the information necessary to successfully grow Ginkgo Biloba.