Ginkgo

Have you ever seen a tree that witnessed an atomic blast? The Ginkgo tree, right here in Stuttgart isn’t that tree, but its cousins in Hiroshima did. Those Ginkgos, scarred and scorched, were among the first living things to regrow after the devastation, a testament to the resilience of this ancient species. This particular Ginkgo in Stuttgart is part of a larger family, found in nearly every arboretum and botanical garden in temperate climates. The Ginkgo biloba has a remarkable history. Its ancestors appeared over 290 million years ago, making it older than the dinosaurs. The Ginkgo is often called a “living fossil” because fossils almost identical to it date back to the Middle Jurassic period, some 170 million years ago. In Stuttgart, the Ginkgo enjoys the well-drained soil and full sun, flourishing in Wilhelma, the city’s combined zoological and botanical garden. Imagine exploring the Moorish gardens surrounding the historic buildings, the aroma of exotic plants mingling with the sounds of the zoo’s inhabitants. Amid this vibrant display of nature, the Ginkgo stands tall. Look closely at its fan-shaped leaves, unique among seed plants. Their veins radiate outwards, sometimes splitting, a design that speaks to its ancient lineage. In autumn, these leaves turn a brilliant saffron yellow, creating a breathtaking spectacle before falling, often within a very short time. The Ginkgo has a fascinating reproductive process. Unlike other trees, the female Ginkgo doesn’t produce cones. Instead, it grows ovules that, after pollination, develop into seed-containing structures. These resemble apricots but beware the smell! The fleshy outer layer emits a rather unpleasant odor, described as rancid butter. Despite this, the Ginkgo nut is a delicacy in Asian cuisine, often served at weddings and during the Chinese New Year. Stuttgart boasts many Ginkgos. You can find them lining Calwer Strasse, Ludwig Strasse, Lau Strasse, Duisburger Strasse, Panorama Strasse, Vogelsang Strasse and more. The Ginkgo’s resilience is not just biological. It also carries cultural significance. Its leaves are the emblem of prestigious universities, a symbol of endurance and knowledge. So, the next time you encounter a Ginkgo, take a moment to appreciate its incredible journey through time, a living link to a world long gone.