Fruit: male and female cones with bad odor and thick edible kernel
Twig: light green to light brown
Bark: gray, becoming rough and deeply furrowed
Form: tree
Fossils showed that many different Ginkgoes existed in the past. Only one species remains today. It would be extinct if it had not been planted in China and Japan. It is a popular ornamental tree because it is resistant to insects, disease, and pollution. The female tree's seeds reek like rancid butter; they should not be touched because the smell will stay after contact.
The Ginkgo tree can be found on lawns and along streets in most soils. It is native to SE China and it is planted in the E. United States and on the Pacific Coast.
Location: In the front yard, middle tree at 422 S. Franklin, Bunker Hill, IL.
© Community Unit School District #8, Bunker Hill 504 E. Warren, Bunker Hill, IL 62014
References:
Brockman, C. Frank. Trees of North America. New York, NY: Golden Press, 1968
Little, Elbert L. A Field Guide to Trees: Western Region. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf Inc., 1980.
Wernert, Susan J. ed. North American Wildlife Pleasantville, NY: Reader's Digest, 1982.