The Ginkgo tree, Ginkgo biloba, is a unique species often referred to as a “living fossil” because it is the sole survivor of an ancient plant order. This resilience has made it a popular choice for urban landscaping, prized for its resistance to pollution and disease. Understanding its ultimate size is paramount when considering planting a Ginkgo, as its mature height significantly influences its suitability for a given space.
Typical and Maximum Heights
Most Ginkgo trees planted in residential and urban areas mature within a height range of 50 to 80 feet. This size is typically observed in cultivated specimens that have been growing for several decades in good conditions. The tree initially develops an irregular, open crown, which becomes denser and more broadly pyramidal as it ages.
While the 50 to 80-foot range is common, the species can grow much taller under ideal, undisturbed circumstances. Ancient specimens in their native habitat in China have been documented to exceed 100 feet, reaching maximum confirmed sizes of approximately 131 to 140 feet. These figures represent the height achieved by trees allowed to grow for centuries, often in temple gardens or protected areas.
Growth Speed and Lifespan
The time it takes for a Ginkgo to reach its mature size relates directly to its extraordinary longevity. In its juvenile stage, a newly planted Ginkgo may exhibit extremely slow growth for the first two to five years while establishing its deep root system. After this establishment period, the growth rate accelerates to a moderate pace, generally adding about one to two feet of vertical growth per year.
This steady, moderate growth pattern is characteristic of a species built for the long haul, as Ginkgo trees are among the longest-living species on Earth. Many individuals live for over 1,000 years, and some ancient specimens in China are estimated to be over 3,500 years old. Scientific analysis of very old Ginkgos has shown that their growth does not slow with age; the continued activity of their vascular cambium allows them to maintain continuous growth.
Cultivars and Environmental Influences on Size
The final height of any Ginkgo tree is influenced by both human selection and the limitations of its planting environment. Horticulturists have developed numerous cultivars intentionally bred to be smaller than the species standard, offering options for restricted urban spaces. Columnar cultivars like ‘Princeton Sentry’ or ‘Fairmont’ are popular selections designed to be narrow, maturing around 40 to 65 feet tall with a reduced spread.
Dwarf cultivars, such as ‘Mariken’ or ‘Troll,’ grow as low, dense mounds, sometimes reaching only two to six feet tall, making them suitable for containers or rock gardens. Beyond breeding, environmental factors in urban settings often limit the tree’s potential size. While Ginkgos tolerate pollution and varied soil conditions, poor drainage, root confinement from pavement, and soil compaction restrict a tree’s vigor and prevent it from reaching maximum natural heights.