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Troll Maidenhair Tree

Ginkgo biloba 'Troll'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Extremely long-lived

Native To

China

Toxicity

Seeds (if produced) are toxic if ingested raw

The Story

Plant Bio

Ginkgo biloba, a living fossil, is a large deciduous tree known for its unique fan-shaped leaves and incredible resilience. It is highly tolerant of urban conditions and has brilliant golden-yellow fall color. 'Troll' is a dwarf, compact cultivar with a dense, witch's broom-like structure. Its leaves are a rich green and more closely spaced than the species, creating a unique, bonsai-like texture on a small, shrubby tree.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A true collector's plant, 'Troll' offers a unique, compact, and densely textured form. Its distinctive fan-shaped leaves turn a brilliant, clear yellow in autumn, creating a stunning focal point in small gardens or containers.

Its extremely slow growth and small stature make it ideal for rock gardens, troughs, and urban balconies where space is limited. It is virtually pest and disease-free and requires no pruning.

While this specific cultivar has limited ecological impact due to its size, the Ginkgo species is an ancient lineage, representing a unique branch of the plant kingdom and offering a link to a prehistoric world.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with full sun and excellent drainage.
Dig a hole twice the width of the pot.
Gently remove the plant and place it in the hole.
Ensure the root flare is at or slightly above soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water well.
Mulch lightly, keeping it away from the stem.

Pro Tip

Be patient; this is a very slow-growing cultivar, but its unique form is well worth the wait.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for best growth and fall color.
Ensure the soil is well-drained.
Water during establishment and severe drought.

Don't

Don't plant in a wet, boggy location.
Avoid heavy fertilization.
Don't expect rapid growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Unique rock garden specimenTextural container plantBonsai or small garden accent

Companion Plants

Sedum 'Angelina' Juniperus procumbens 'Nana' Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Troll Maidenhair Tree questions

What zones can Troll Maidenhair Tree grow in?

Troll Maidenhair Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Troll Maidenhair Tree deer resistant?

Yes — Troll Maidenhair Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Troll Maidenhair Tree bloom?

Troll Maidenhair Tree typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Troll Maidenhair Tree need full sun?

Troll Maidenhair Tree does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Troll Maidenhair Tree drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Troll Maidenhair Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.