The Ginko biloba (Maidenhair tree) has been described as a 'living fossil' because it is the sole survivor from an ancient group of trees that date back to beyond the time of dinosaurs. Ginkgo genus fossils are found in both Jurassic and Cretaceous rocks, but today Ginkgo biloba is the only member of this genus remaining. They can be extremely long lived, the oldest recorded individual tree being 3,500 years old. The Ginkgo has a long history of cultural importance in Asia where it is revered - legend has it that Confucius sat beneath a Ginkgo Tree whilst teaching.
Fossilised ginkgo leaf overlaid with a comtemporary leaf for comparison.
Some people take Ginkgo pills, made from juice in the leaves, on the understanding that they prevent strokes and Alzheimer's. However, as yet, there has been insufficient scientific evidence to prove it works. It may be better to walk 3,000 extra steps a day, and keep mentally active by playing Sudoku or may be even blogging!!
I purchased this Cycad revoluta (Sago Palm) in a Spanish market a good 15 years ago. Obviously it was much smaller then as I was able to return with it on the plane. Although it resembles a palm it is actually a fern whose genus also dates back to before dinosaurs roamed the earth. Fossils of the cycad genus have also been discovered providing evidence of their existence dating back over 300 million years.
Every two or three years our plant produces a new set of leaves which are fascinating to watch as they unfurl
They look soft like ferns but their appearance belies them - as they mature the leaves become leathery, very tough and strong with sharp points at the tips. Their stems too have needle sharp prongs which can be harmful to the unwary
unfurling day by day
footnote:
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Some people take Ginkgo pills, made from juice in the leaves, on the understanding that they prevent strokes and Alzheimer's. However, as yet, there has been insufficient scientific evidence to prove it works. It may be better to walk 3,000 extra steps a day, and keep mentally active by playing Sudoku or may be even blogging!!
They look soft like ferns but their appearance belies them - as they mature the leaves become leathery, very tough and strong with sharp points at the tips. Their stems too have needle sharp prongs which can be harmful to the unwary
footnote:
I have no idea how this giant pre-historic looking bug gained access to the conservatory - all of the windows and doors were tightly shut
He is a Cockchafer or May Bug (Melolontha) a member of the family Scarabaeidae - Scarab beetles were revered as sacred in ancient Egypt.
How do I know that he is a boy? - he has seven leaves on his antannae whereas girls have six.
How do I know that he is a boy? - he has seven leaves on his antannae whereas girls have six.
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