Ginkgo biloba Lemonlime Spire (Menhir)

Ginkgo biloba 'Lemonlime Spire', commonly known as Menhir Ginkgo or Lemonlime Spire Ginkgo, is a unique and striking cultivar of the iconic Ginkgo tree. This deciduous tree, belonging to the Ginkgoaceae family, is prized for its distinctive columnar form, vibrant golden-yellow foliage, and tolerance to urban conditions. 'Lemonlime Spire' is a relatively new cultivar with a compact growth habit, making it an ideal choice for small gardens, urban landscapes, and contemporary architectural settings.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 4 to 5 meters, though can reach greater heights under optimal growing conditions.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 1 to 1.5 meters, forming a narrow, upright columnar shape.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: Menhir Ginkgo thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and alkaline soils, but performs best in soil that is moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The tree features vibrant golden-yellow foliage that emerges in spring, gradually maturing to a lime green shade in summer. The leaves are fan-shaped and arranged in an alternate fashion along the branches. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a striking display of golden-yellow hues, adding warmth and visual interest to the landscape.
• Bark: The trunk of Menhir Ginkgo is smooth and gray in youth, developing subtle fissures and ridges with age. The bark adds visual interest and texture to the tree's slender silhouette, especially during the winter months when the branches are bare.
• Growth Habit: 'Lemonlime Spire' has a compact, narrowly columnar growth habit, with densely packed branches and foliage that form a slender, upright silhouette. It typically forms a single trunk with ascending branches that remain relatively narrow, creating a distinctive architectural presence in the landscape.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering to establish young trees and during periods of drought to maintain soil moisture. Once established, Menhir Ginkgo is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
• Sunlight: Menhir Ginkgo thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun exposure promotes vigorous growth and enhances the intensity of the foliage coloration. Plant in a location with ample sunlight and protection from strong winds.
• Temperature: Menhir Ginkgo is well-suited to the Australian climate and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters. It is adaptable to both coastal and inland regions but may suffer leaf scorch in extreme heat or prolonged drought. Provide supplemental watering and mulch to conserve soil moisture during periods of high temperature and dryness.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation within the canopy. Menhir Ginkgo requires minimal pruning due to its compact growth habit but can be lightly trimmed to control size and density. Avoid heavy pruning, as excessive cutting can detract from the tree's slender form and architectural appeal.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for deciduous trees in spring to promote healthy growth and foliage coloration. Alternatively, use a liquid fertiliser for ornamental trees every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Menhir Ginkgo is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to issues such as aphids, scale insects, and leaf spot in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if pests or diseases are detected. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overcrowding to minimise fungal problems.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen tree, focal point, or vertical accent in gardens, courtyards, and urban landscapes. Menhir Ginkgo adds architectural interest, vibrant foliage color, and compact growth to outdoor spaces, making it an excellent choice for modern, minimalist, and contemporary garden designs.

Ginkgo biloba 'Lemonlime Spire' (Menhir) is a distinctive and elegant tree that adds beauty and structure to Australian gardens, parks, and urban landscapes. With its compact growth habit, vibrant foliage, and architectural form, it is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, high-impact tree for small spaces and modern settings.

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