There is more than meets the eye to the Ginkgo biloba, a well-known and widely cultivated plant. Ginkgo biloba is one of the toughest species on the planet. Did you know that six ginkgo trees survived the 1945 Hiroshima atom bomb?

Striking fall color of Ginkgo biloba. photo credit: R. Manduca

The trees were among the few plant and animal survivors in the area and they are still alive today. This example is a testament to its resilience. Ginkgo biloba is well-suited to an urban environment because of its ability to endure pollution and cramped soil space. Disease and insects seldom affect this robust plant, consequently, the longevity of this tree is impressive; some specimens are claimed to be over 1,500 years old.

If that is not impressive enough, medicinally, ginkgos can be used to remedy a range of conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, evidence supports ginkgos as beneficial for managing dementia, anxiety, schizophrenia, and cerebral insufficiency (insufficient blood flow to the brain).

There may be additional medicinal benefits, but further research is needed. However, ginkgo supplements should be used with caution in people with blood circulation disorders or if taken with aspirin or other herbs that increase bleeding (e.g. garlic, ginger) as they may produce unwanted side effects.

Ripening nuts of Ginkgo biloba ‘Tubiformis’. photo credit: L. Lancaster

In addition to the medicinal benefits, the nuts from Ginkgo biloba are edible and are used in traditional Chinese cuisine. Have you ever eaten Buddha’s delight? This Chinese vegetarian dish features the nut-like gametophytes inside the seeds from Ginkgo biloba and is often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. The nuts from Ginkgo biloba are also used in congee and in dishes made for special occasions.

Ginkgo biloba has vibrant yellow foliage that sheds rapidly. photo credit: R. Manduca

On top of all the amazing benefits of Ginkgo biloba, it is also a gorgeous tree. Come back to Scott Arboretum in autumn and you can look forward to the vibrant yellow foliage of this deciduous tree that sheds its leaves rapidly – within a one day to two week span.

Ginkgo biloba ‘Golden Globe’ has the unique ginkgo leaf shape. photo credit: L. Lancaster

Ginkgos have a unique leaf shape and it is no surprise that the symbol of Tokyo is a ginkgo leaf. Ginkgo biloba is known as the maidenhair tree because the leaves appear similar to some of the pinnae of the maidenhair fern. Other common names are Kew tree and Japanese silver apricot.

One interesting characteristic of Ginkgo biloba is that it is a dioecious tree which means that there are male and female trees. Male plants produce small pollen cones. A wonderful place to admire a unique male cultivar is the decorative Gingko biloba ‘Saratoga’ espalier display on the back wall of Parrish Hall facing Kohlberg Hall.

Ginkgo biloba ‘Saratoga’ espalier displayed on the back wall of Parrish Hall facing Kohlberg Hall. photo credit: L. Lancaster

There are also two young round-shaped ‘Golden Globe’ male cultivars on campus, both accessioned in 2004. One is located in front of Clothier Hall and the other is located between the Bell Tower and Sharples Dining Hall. A disadvantage of male trees is that they are highly allergenic compared to females.

Female plants produce a light yellow-brown fruit. Although the fruit is lovely, many horticulturists prefer a male plant because the fruit contains butyric acid and leaves a nasty odor.

Ginkgo biloba ‘Saratgoa’ unique leaf shape. photo credit: L. Lancaster

There are several female Ginkgo bilobas on campus, so you can experience this phenomenon yourself in the fall. Check them out at the corner of the West House or the corner of Parrish adjacent to the Dean Bond Rose Garden.

Along the side of Parrish Hall facing Parrish West Circle you can see a female cultivar, ‘Tubiformis’, where the leaves appear to be rolled into tubes. The fruit odor from the females is probably the only downside, so don’t be afraid to come and experience the splendor of the ginkgo collection at Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.

The post Ginkgo biloba appeared first on Scott Arboretum & Gardens.

Helianthus ‘Sunshine Daydream’

 A dazzling bright yellow color and intriguing texture make the Helianthus ‘Sunshine Daydream’ a must-see. As you walk along the pathway by the Biostream, you will notice the distinctive flower pattern and double blooms of this herbaceous summer perennial which flowers continuously from June to August. Native to North America, it is a branch sport of ‘Capenoch Star’ and looks similar to a dahlia. Not only are the flowers fantastic for cutting, but also for attracting butterflies and bees. In addition to its stunning appearance, Helianthus ‘Sunshine Daydream’ is hearty in the summer heat and is mildew resistant. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

Lycoris squamigera

Relax in one of the iconic white wooden Swarthmore campus chairs and experience the magic of these Magill Walk wonders! The Lycoris squamigera flowers are beautiful, as well as mystical. Did you know that plants in the Lycoris genus are commonly referred to as resurrection flower, surprise lily, or magic lily? This is because the leaves disappear in the summer and flowers emerge from the stem in August. Easy to maintain, Lycoris squamigera is one of the most cold-hardy species of lycoris available on the market; it needs only moderate water during the summer after the leaves die and before the stems rise. The bloom duration is only a few weeks, so be sure to see this charming plant as it blooms soon. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

Alocasia ‘Polly’

Alocasia ‘Polly’ also known as elephant ear is an impressive indoor or outdoor plant with a refreshing tropical vibe. Its prominent white veins make the foliage look like an arrowhead. Although this plant is a fascinating treasure in the Scott Entrance Garden, it is extremely challenging to grow and will quickly die if it is not cared for properly. Ideal conditions are filtered to full shade, warm temperatures year-round, high humidity, and moist soil. Gardeners, beware that the consumption of the plant is poisonous for cats and dogs (and most pets). While Alocasia ‘Polly’ may not be the best plant choice for your home, it is certainly a remarkable plant to admire on your next Scott Arboretum visit. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

The post Plants of the Week: August 17 appeared first on Scott Arboretum & Gardens.

Campsis grandiflora ‘Morning Calm’

 Check out the vibrant flowers of the Isabelle Cosby Courtyard Campsis! The Campsis grandiflora ‘Morning Calm’ is great for attracting hummingbirds. This Chinese trumpet vine makes a fantastic cover for fences; however, beware: it is a vigorous self-climber and can grow up to 30 feet high! This easy maintenance plant can be propagated with soft wood cuttings. No wonder it’s a winner of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Gold Medal Plant Award for its exceptional qualities in the Mid-Atlantic. Full sun is best for this beautiful summer bloomer. This plant is available at the 2015 Scott Arboretum Plant Sale. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

Lilium ‘Anastasia’

Take in the pleasant fragrance of Lilium ‘Anastasia’ in the Terry Shane Teaching Garden. This plant is a hybridization of oriental and trumpet lilies and has inherited excellent characteristics from both its parents. The flowers make a lovely centerpiece, but be sure to cut off the anthers at the end of the stamens as they can stain tablecloths and clothing. This full sun, fast-growing plant is tall and can reach 4’-6’ in height. A former winner of the 2013 North American Lily Society popularity poll, be sure to take a look on your next visit to Scott Arboretum. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

Lilium ‘Silver Scheherazade’

Another summer favorite, the American Lily Society voted ‘Scheherazade’ into its “Hall of Fame,” a list of lilies that have scored first in the popularity poll for three years. The exquisite rose whiskers caught my eye in the Scott Entrance Garden. Despite its name, Lilium ‘Silver Scheherazade’ can shade to a light peach-pink on cool summer nights. This hardy plant can withstand harsh weather. ‘Silver Scheherazade’ is an elegant perennial bulb choice for your home garden. Photo Credit: L. Lancaster

The post Plants of the Week: July 20 appeared first on Scott Arboretum & Gardens.