Maidenhair - Gingko balboa

The fourth most common street tree in Sunnyvale is the Maidenhar (Gingko balboa) tree, commonly known as the gingko. 

Ginkgo is a “living fossil” because it has not changed in the past 270 million years. It is the oldest tree species in the world (Wikipedia). It is only found in the wild in China but has been cultivated across the world. Some specimens in China are believed to be over 2,000 years old. Ginkgo biloba is dioecious (they have separate sexes). The male trees are highly allergenic, while the female plants are not. The leaves are fan-shaped with veins radiating out into the fan blade. In the fall the leaves turns a brilliant yellow.

Inverness at the corner of Nightingale Ave. Sunnyvale, CA


The leaves are fan-shaped, usually 2"-4" long.



Where to find them:  Gingkos are very common along Sunnyvale streets. Some examples can be found on Helena Dr, Ontario Dr and Quail Rd between Dunford and Homestead.


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