Monticello Gardens

Common name: Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree

Family: Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo)

Distribution: China

Hardiness: USDA Zone 3

Life form: Deciduous tree

Usage: Ornamental, Edible

Comments: In 1806, William Hamilton wrote to Thomas Jefferson that he intended to send to him three trees that he thought Jefferson would "deem valuable additions" to his garden. Ginkgo biloba or the China Maidenhair tree was one of the trees listed. Hamilton goes on to say that it produces a "good eatable nut." Today the seed is eaten by the Japanese and is said to be well-flavored, but considered malodorous in this country.