Ginkgo biloba Mekkens Minaret

Common Name:
Mekkens Minaret Maidenhair Tree

Description:
Ginkgo biloba ‘Mekkens Minaret’ is a rare and elegant columnar variety of the ancient Maidenhair Tree, prized for its narrow, upright growth habit and distinctive, fan-shaped leaves. This deciduous tree features lush green foliage throughout spring and summer, turning a spectacular golden-yellow in autumn before dropping to reveal a striking vertical form. Its strong, structured shape makes it an excellent choice for avenue plantings, formal gardens, or compact spaces where height is desired without excessive width. As a male cultivar, Mekkens Minaret does not produce the odorous fruit associated with female ginkgo trees. Highly tolerant of pollution, drought, and urban conditions, it thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a resilient and low-maintenance addition to the landscape.

Form:

• Tree - Medium
• Tree - Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 8–12m
• Width: 2–4m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Does not flower

Flower Colour:

• N/A

Key Attributes:

• Deciduous
• Architectural / Feature tree
• Autumn Foliage Interest
• Pollution Tolerant
• Disease Resistant
• Suitable for Avenue Planting
• Low-maintenance

Toxicity:

• Not toxic, but female ginkgo trees produce fruit-like seeds with a strong odour. Mekkens Minaret is a male cultivar, so it does not produce seeds.

Companion Plants:

• Acer rubrum (Red Maple) for a striking autumn colour combination
• Betula pendula (Silver Birch) for a contrast in texture and form
• Lavandula (Lavender) for a drought-tolerant, Mediterranean-inspired pairing
• Miscanthus (Ornamental Grass) for a soft, textural contrast