Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

When choosing ginkgo trees for landscaping, which type should you select?

1. Male and female trees

2. Male trees only

3. Mature female trees only

4. Female trees only

The correct answer is: Male trees only

Choosing male ginkgo trees for landscaping is often preferred due to their lack of unpleasant odors associated with female trees. Female ginkgo trees produce fruit that, when ripe, emits a strong, foul smell, which can be off-putting in a landscape setting. Male trees, on the other hand, do not produce this fruit and therefore do not carry the associated odor, making them a more desirable choice for residential and public landscapes. Additionally, male ginkgo trees are known for their attractive fall color and unique leaf shape, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of landscapes. They are also less messy since they do not shed the fruit and seeds that can create litter. This focus on cleanliness and aesthetic beauty makes male ginkgo trees the recommended option for landscaping purposes.