Ginkgo biloba Lemonlime Spire (Menhir)

Description:
Ginkgo biloba 'Lemonlime Spire' (Menhir) is a unique, columnar cultivar of the ancient Ginkgo tree, prized for its upright form and vibrant foliage. This deciduous tree is known for its narrow, spire-like shape and beautiful, fan-shaped leaves that transform to brilliant golden yellow in autumn. Its compact growth and striking seasonal color make it an excellent choice for small gardens, urban landscapes, and narrow spaces.

Flowers:
Ginkgo trees are dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers grow on separate trees. 'Lemonlime Spire' is typically a male cultivar, producing small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, which are not a major ornamental feature.

Foliage:
The tree features distinctive, fan-shaped leaves that emerge bright green in spring and summer. In autumn, the foliage turns a vibrant golden yellow, creating a stunning seasonal display. The leaves are leathery and resilient, giving the tree a lush appearance throughout the growing season.

Fruit:
As a male cultivar, 'Lemonlime Spire' generally does not produce the fleshy, odorous fruits associated with female Ginkgo trees, making it a cleaner choice for landscaping.

Form and Size:
'Lemonlime Spire' has a narrow, columnar growth habit, typically reaching a height of 4 to 6 meters with a spread of about 1.5 meters. Its compact, upright form makes it ideal for smaller landscapes, tight spaces, and as a vertical accent in mixed borders.

Growing Conditions:
This Ginkgo thrives in full sun and adapts well to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as they are well-draining. It is highly tolerant of urban conditions, including pollution and salt, and is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for city landscapes and low-maintenance gardens.

Uses:
'Lemonlime Spire' is ideal as a specimen tree in narrow garden beds, urban landscapes, and spaces where height is needed without sacrificing ground area. Its unique shape and vibrant autumn color make it a standout addition in formal gardens, courtyards, and along pathways.

Maintenance:
This variety is low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape. Pruning can be done in winter to remove any dead or crossing branches. It does not require frequent fertilization but will benefit from a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.

Notes:
Lemonlime Spire is valued for its narrow form and ease of care, as well as its resilience to urban stressors. Its brilliant autumn color, unique leaf shape, and compact structure make it an attractive choice for gardeners and landscapers working with limited space.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other vertical or columnar trees and shrubs, such as Juniperus (Juniper) and Taxus (Yew). It also complements ground covers and low-growing perennials, such as Hostas, Sedums, and ornamental grasses, for a layered, contrasting effect.

Common Name: Lemonlime Spire Ginkgo, Menhir Ginkgo
Botanical Name: Ginkgo biloba 'Lemonlime Spire' ('Menhir')
Family: Ginkgoaceae
Origin: China (cultivar selection)

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