Ginkgo biloba Saratoga

Common Name:
Saratoga Maidenhair Tree

Description:
Ginkgo biloba ‘Saratoga’ is a unique and elegant cultivar of the ancient Maidenhair Tree, distinguished by its gracefully arching branches and deeply lobed, narrow fan-shaped leaves. This deciduous tree offers lush green foliage in spring and summer, transitioning to a spectacular golden-yellow in autumn before shedding to reveal its structured form. With a slightly more compact, upright growth habit than the standard species, Saratoga is well-suited for urban plantings, streetscapes, and medium-sized gardens. A male cultivar, it does not produce the messy, odorous fruit associated with female ginkgo trees. Highly resistant to pests, pollution, and drought once established, it thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a durable and low-maintenance choice for Australian landscapes.

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 8–12m
• Width: 4–6m

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. Saratoga is a male cultivar, so it does not produce seeds.

Companion Plants:

• Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple) for contrasting seasonal colour
• Betula pendula (Silver Birch) for a complementary, fine-textured form
• Lavandula (Lavender) for underplanting with drought tolerance
• Miscanthus (Ornamental Grass) for soft texture and movement