Saratoga Ginkgo Tree

Ginkgo biloba 'Saratoga' is a deciduous male cultivar with an upright, conical crown and unusually long, narrow, fan-shaped leaves. The leaves turn golden yellow in autumn, and the male selection does not produce the strongly scented seeds associated with female Ginkgo trees. [The Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/78045/ginkgo-biloba-saratoga-m/details) describes its upright habit and full-sun, well-drained-soil culture; [Maple Lane Nursery](https://www.maplelanenursery.com/plant-name/Ginkgo-biloba-Saratoga) lists USDA zones 4–9 and a mature size of 32–39 ft tall by 26–32 ft wide. ## Form and seasonal interest Use this cultivar as a shade or street tree where its tall, pyramidal crown has room to develop. The fan-shaped foliage is green through the growing season and provides a dependable golden-yellow fall display. Mature size varies with site and growing conditions, so allow generous clearance from buildings and overhead lines. ## Siting and care Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Ginkgo tolerates atmospheric pollution, which supports use in urban settings. Water a new planting during establishment and monitor it through extended dry periods. ## Maintenance Keep the central framework intact and prune only to remove damaged or poorly placed branches. Female Ginkgo fruits can create odor and litter; this named male cultivar is selected to avoid that problem.