Ginkgo Biloba vs Shagbark Hickory - TreeTime.ca

Ginkgo Biloba vs Shagbark Hickory

Carya ovata

Ginkgo biloba

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Shagbark Hickory
Ginkgo Biloba

Shagbark Hickory is a unique tree both for its looks and uses. Its bark peels into long thin vertical strips giving it a shaggy appearance. This and its golden fall leaves make it a gorgeous looking tree. This species produces tasty hickory nuts once mature. Hickory smoke is also treasured for curing meats and its generally fantastic smell.

This tree is best planted away from any buildings due to a deep taproot and large size. Many people remark on the unusual taproot for this tree that can be over 6 feet deep while the plant only has 2 feet of top growth.

The Ginkgo Biloba is regarded as one of the most distinctive and beautiful of all the deciduous trees, and has remained genetically unchanged for millions of years. Its beautifully fan-shaped leaves develop a clear yellow colour in fall. Graceful and attractive year-round, Ginkgo is the perfect conversation starter in your yard.

Shagbark Hickory Quick Facts

Ginkgo Biloba Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 4a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Spread: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: any
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: none


Toxicity: Uncooked nuts in large quantities
Foliage: unique fan-shaped green leaves
Fall colour: golden yellow
Bark: shaggy looking bark peels vertically in long strips
Nuts: similar to pecans
Nuts: Edible and tasty, cook before eating
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: carolina hickory, scalybark hickory, shellbark hickory, upland hickory
Other Names: gingko, maidenhair tree