Maidenhair Tree

About this plant

The Ginkgo biloba 'Chi-Chi' is a unique and fascinating cultivar of the ancient Maidenhair tree, known for its slow growth and exceptional architectural presence. Its distinctive fan-shaped, emerald-green leaves turn a brilliant golden yellow in autumn, creating a spectacular seasonal display. This particular cultivar is noted for its compact, often irregular growth habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a focal point in a larger landscape. Beyond its beauty, the Maidenhair tree is remarkably resilient and adaptable, tolerating a wide range of urban conditions including pollution. Its hardiness and long lifespan make it a truly generational plant, a testament to its ancient lineage. 'Chi-Chi' brings an extra layer of character with its often contorted branching, adding visual interest even in winter. Perfect for a specimen planting, a meditative garden, or a sophisticated urban setting, the 'Chi-Chi' Ginkgo promises to be a conversation piece and a cherished addition to any landscape. Its slow growth rewards patience with a truly unique and enduring living sculpture.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Generally low-maintenance once established. Prune young trees to establish a strong central leader and desired form. Little pruning is needed on mature trees beyond removing dead or crossing branches. Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if growth is slow or soil is poor.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.