The Ginkgo tree, also known as the maidenhair tree, is often referred to as a “living fossil” because, despite the drastic climate changes over millions of years, it has remained unchanged for more than 200 million years. It serves as a living link to the time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

This 1,400-year-old Ginkgo tree is located within the walls of the Gu Guanyin Buddhist Temple in the Zhongnan Mountain region of China. As its leaves fall and create a vibrant sea of gold every autumn, tourists from around the world flock to witness this breathtaking sight. However, this year, due to the global pandemic, only people in China have had the opportunity to view this marvel. Visitors eagerly wait for the chance to capture photos of this colorful spectacle.

The golden leaves begin to fall in October, transforming the temple grounds and the surrounding landscape into a yellow ocean. It’s the perfect celebration of autumn. This Ginkgo tree’s resilience, despite climatic changes, spanning over 200 million years, is truly fascinating. It serves as a living connection to a time when dinosaurs ruled the Earth.

In addition to its magical yellow hues during the fall, this particular species of Ginkgo tree also offers practical uses. Not only does it provide a source of food, but it also boasts various medicinal benefits recognized in traditional Eastern medicine.

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as Ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is the only living species in the Ginkgophyta division, with all other related species having gone extinct. Also known as the maidenhair tree, this ancient species dates back to some 270 million years, as evidenced by fossils.