The Ginkgo tree, Ginkgo biloba, is often called a “living fossil” because it is the sole surviving member of an ancient plant order dating back over 270 million years. This deciduous tree is recognizable by its distinctive fan-shaped leaves, which turn a brilliant golden-yellow in the autumn. It is highly valued in urban landscapes for its resilience and appearance, leading many to wonder about its growth rate.
Defining Ginkgo Growth Speed
Ginkgo trees are generally classified as having a moderate to slow growth rate. Once established, a tree typically gains between 12 and 24 inches in height per year, though this depends heavily on the specific cultivar and site conditions. This growth rate places it in the average category for many ornamental shade trees.
The initial establishment phase is notably slow. During the first few years after planting, the young tree focuses its energy on developing a strong, deep root system before putting on significant vertical growth. It is common for a newly planted Ginkgo to show very little height gain, sometimes as little as 6 to 12 inches annually, until its root structure is fully mature.
Environmental Factors Influencing Growth
The rate at which a Ginkgo approaches the higher end of its growth potential is directly linked to its environment. To achieve growth closer to the 24-inch annual gain, the tree requires full sun exposure, ideally receiving at least four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. While the tree is highly adaptable and can tolerate partial shade, a lack of light will result in a slower growth rate.
Ginkgos prefer deep, well-draining soil, although they tolerate a wide range of soil textures and pH levels. The species is known for its hardiness, thriving even in compacted soils and environments with significant air pollution, making it popular for city streetscapes. Consistent moisture is important during the first two growing seasons to help establish the root system. While mature trees are highly drought-tolerant, prolonged dryness can limit growth.
Long-Term Planting Considerations
Considering the moderate-to-slow growth rate, planting a Ginkgo is a long-term commitment, as the tree can live for hundreds of years and will eventually become a major landscape feature. Mature species trees typically reach heights of 50 to 80 feet, with a spread of 30 to 40 feet, requiring significant space. Smaller, fastigiate cultivars like ‘Princeton Sentry’ offer a more narrow, columnar form for restricted spaces.
Selecting a male versus a female tree is a critical decision, as the species is dioecious. Female trees produce seeds encased in a fleshy outer layer containing butyric acid, which emits a foul odor when the seeds drop. For this reason, most commercial landscape plantings exclusively use grafted male cultivars, such as ‘Autumn Gold’ or ‘Princeton Sentry,’ to avoid the messy seeds.