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Ginkgo biloba L. is a large
deciduous gymnosperm native to China.
This species may be extinct in the wild, with the possible exception
of a single population growing on Tian Mu Mountain in western
Zhejiang province. Ginkgo biloba is dioecious, that is,
male and female reproductive structures are formed on separate
trees. Male trees are valued over females for ornamental usage,
as the seeds are foul smelling (rancid butter). Female trees
are prized in China and Japan as the seeds are edible. Recently
extracts from this plant have been used in herbal medicine.
For further information, see
the Virginia
Cooperative Extension.
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