Ginkgo biloba 'Jade Butterfly'
tree

Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree

Ginkgo biloba 'Jade Butterfly'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

144 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Very long-lived

Native To

China

Toxicity

Seeds are toxic if ingested in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Ginkgo biloba, a living fossil, is a large, deciduous tree famed for its unique, fan-shaped leaves and extreme resilience in urban environments. 'Jade Butterfly' is a dwarf, vase-shaped cultivar with distinctive, deeply-lobed leaves clustered together to resemble butterflies, creating a unique texture.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIts unique leaf shape, texture, and compact size make 'Jade Butterfly' a stunning architectural specimen. The brilliant yellow fall color provides a dramatic seasonal finale. It is perfect for small gardens, courtyards, and even large containers where its form can be appreciated up close.
Practical UsesBeing highly tolerant of urban pollution, compacted soil, and drought (once established), it is an excellent choice for challenging city environments. Its deciduous nature allows winter sun to penetrate while providing shade in summer. As a male cultivar, it does not produce messy fruit.
Ecological BenefitsWhile not a major wildlife plant, Ginkgo trees are incredibly resilient and long-lived, sequestering carbon for centuries. They are largely resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions in the landscape.

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

  1. Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
  2. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
  3. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
  4. Backfill the hole with the original soil, watering to settle.
  5. Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
  6. Apply a layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Be patient; Ginkgos are slow growers initially but become very low-maintenance and long-lived once established.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistent water during the first few years.
  • Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings once established.
  • Prune only to remove dead or crossing branches in late winter.
  • Tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including urban pollution.

Don't

  • Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
  • Avoid planting female trees in high-traffic areas due to messy fruit.
  • Don't over-fertilize; Ginkgos require little to no supplemental feeding.
  • Avoid heavy pruning, which can spoil its natural form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural specimen for small gardensUnique focal point in rock gardensElegant container patio tree

Companion Plants

Hosta 'Sum and Substance' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Heuchera 'Obsidian' Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' Carex oshimensis 'Evergold'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree questions

What zones can Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree grow in?

Jade Butterfly 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 Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree deer resistant?

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

When does Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree bloom?

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

Does Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree need full sun?

Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Jade Butterfly Maidenhair Tree with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play