World Plants

Ginkgo biloba 'Mariken' (Mariken Ginkgo, Mariken Dwarf Maidenhair Tree)

Family	Ginkgoaceae
Genus	Ginkgo
Species	biloba
Cultivar	'Mariken'
Category	Woody
Type	Shrub (deciduous)
Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer	Traditionally, the wood of a Ginkgo tree is used to make religious articles and carvings. Some of the oldest cultivated Ginkgo trees are found surrounding Buddhist temples and religious shrines in China, eluding to their ancient religious value in certain cultures. Ginkgo’s fine, light wood is also traditionally used to top chess sets and other delicate wooden structures. Still today, in some Asian cultures, these trees are planted in gardens to signify momentous occasions. Medically, Ginkgo has been used for many centuries in ancient Chinese practices, but has also become popular in today’s pharmaceutical industry. Now in several countries, Ginkgo biloba plantations are cultivated for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, the fruit is cooked and used for curing respiratory ailments. The dried fruit can also be eaten however consuming too much will cause poisoning. Dried leaves and leaf extracts are widely used as herbs, and can be found commonly in health food stores.
Pronunciation

General Description	Ginkgo biloba 'Mariken' is a slow-growing, low-lying, dwarf woody deciduous coniferous tree with bi-lobed, fan-shaped leaves.
Landscape	Makes a nice bonsai, rock garden or specimen plant.
Cultivation	Best grown in moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Stake young plants for support.
Pests	No serious pests or diseases of note.
Notable Specimens	The A.M. Cuddy Gardens, Strathroy, Ontario, Canada. Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington, Ontario, Canada. Awarded Conifer of the Year 2010, by the American Conifer Society.
Habitat	Horticultural origin.
Leaf Description	Bi-lobed, green, turning uniformly golden yellow in autumn.
Flower Description	This particular cultivar is male and therefore does not produce flowers.
Fruit Description	Since no flowers are produced, there is no fruit.