Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ is distinct from other Ginkgo biloba cultivars as a dwarf shrub. It gets its name from the legendary figure Mariken van Nieumeghen. As a much smaller member of the Ginkgo family, it is often used as an ornamental shrub or as a bonsai.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Ginkgo biloba ‘Mariken’ (Maidenhair Tree) is a dwarf, deciduous conifer of semi-pendulous habit, adorned with thick, spreading branches, densely packed with fan-shaped, green leaves. The foliage turns brilliant golden yellow in the fall. Slow-growing, 2 in. per year (5 cm), this small Maidenhair Tree is attractive in all seasons – Even in winter, when its stark silhouette bristles with spiky buds, given the tree an exotic charm. This male cultivar does not produce the distinctive fruit and is perfect as an accent for locations requiring a smaller tree, for containers or grown as a bonsai. One of the most pollution-tolerant trees.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ thrives best in full sunlight, where it can enjoy uninterrupted exposure throughout the day. This optimal light scenario catalyzes robust growth, enhancing the plant’s metabolic functions and promoting dense, healthy foliage. Although maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ can tolerate partial sun, prolonged periods in less than full sunlight can lead to suboptimal growth and reduced vigor. Typically grown outdoors, maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ is best planted in open areas that receive direct sunlight to fully capitalize on its light-loving nature. Adaptively, its leaves can withstand intense sunlight without scorching, underscoring its resilience in sunny environments.
Temperature
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ is exceptionally resilient, tolerating a wide temperature range from -30℃ (-22℉) to 35℃ (95℉). This makes the plant highly adaptable to cold extremes but somewhat sensitive to prolonged heat. In cold conditions, it may exhibit leaf drop or branch dieback, while in heat, leaf scorching and wilting can occur. To protect maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’, mulching can insulate roots during frost, and adequate watering can prevent heat stress. Its broad temperature tolerance implies that maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ can thrive in diverse climates, requiring minimal intervention, yet vigilance during extreme weather is essential to ensure optimal health.
Watering
Adapted to its ancestral habitats, maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ thrives with moderate moisture and tolerates urban conditions well. It is drought-resistant once established, preferring a balance between dryness and humidity. For optimal health, watering should occur twice a week. Being deciduous in nature, maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ requires less water during its dormancy period in the colder months, making it an efficient outdoor plant that adapts its water needs according to the seasons.
Soil
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ does not require any specific soil type. It tolerates a soil pH of 5-8. Nevertheless, planting soil should be adequately drained. A neutral, light, rich soil is a good choice. The hardy maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ tree will also be tolerant to mildly calcareous soil. As ginkgo prefers silty and slightly clayey soil, add some sand to alleviate heavy clay-rich soil. Remember that ginkgo will grow long taproots and requires deep soil.
Fertilizing
Fertilize maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ with balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring and high nitrogen ones in early growth stages. Apply quarterly, adjusting to growth phase and season intensity. Benefits include enhanced vigor and foliage quality. Use caution to avoid over-fertilization, which can damage roots. Monitor soil nutrition regularly for optimal feeding. Ideal for all gardeners seeking a thriving maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’.
Planting Instructions
The maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ is a perfect choice for urban locations because it tolerates pollution well. Before planting a ginkgo tree, consider canopy dimensions, because ginkgo trees can grow up to 30 m tall and up to 15 m wide. Therefore, avoid planting close to power lines or other tall structures. When choosing a ginkgo tree, a male cultivar might be a good idea, because the aroma of the fallen fruit in the autumn can be unpleasant for some people.
For the first three to five years, it might be best to keep your maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ potted inside the house. After about 6 years, they are robust enough to survive winter outside. When planting outside, the planting soil should be dug over and thoroughly loosened. Excavated soil should be mixed with compost (one third compost, two thirds soil). Lastly, return the excavated soil, tread it down, and water thoroughly. As a young maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ tree can grow crookedly, it may be supported by tying it (not too tightly!) to a wooden stake or rebar with a rubber or a nylon band.
Pruning
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ is a dwarf, deciduous tree with fan-shaped leaves. Prune in early spring before new growth begins to remove dead or diseased branches and to maintain its compact shape. Focus on thinning out crowded areas to allow light and air penetration. Avoid heavy pruning as maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ grows slowly. Benefits include improved air circulation, enhanced aesthetics, and promoting healthy growth. Regular, light pruning is recommended for optimal health and appearance.
Propagation
A resilient and compact cultivar, the maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ can be effectively propagated from cuttings. For successful rooting, select semi-hardwood segments that are healthy and free from pests. Treat the cut end with a rooting hormone to encourage growth and plant in a well-drained medium, maintaining consistent moisture throughout the rooting period. Optimal rooting success requires a warm, stable environment. Periodic monitoring for root development is crucial and, once established, the young plants should be transitioned to larger pots before being planted out.
Transpalnting
The optimal period for relocating maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ encompasses the warm growth window from late spring to early summer, affording it ample time to establish. Plant in well-drained soil with ample sunlight, and if needed, ensure rootball moisture during the move.
III. Uses and Benefits
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ makes a fine choice for the outdoor landscape, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor pots and containers. It can be used either as ‘filler’ or as a ‘thriller’ in the ‘spiller-thriller-filler’ container combination, depending on the height and form of the other plants used in the container planting. It is even sizeable enough that it can be grown alone in a suitable container.
IV. Harvesting and Storage
Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ seeds (which fall in autumn) are edible after being well cooked. They have been a highly esteemed food for centuries in Asia. Maidenhair tree ‘Mariken’ seeds may be an acquired taste, as they are acidy, resinous, and sweet. The outer pulp of the seeds has an unpleasant smell and may cause allergies, so take care when harvesting, and peel the pulp off with gloves before you roast or bake the seeds. Crack the seeds to expose the edible part. The seeds are slightly toxic; don’t eat more than five at a time.
