Troll Dwarf Ginkgo Tree

Light Needs

Mature Height

Mature Spread

Growing Zones

The Troll Dwarf Ginkgo Tree, or Ginkgo biloba 'Troll', is a compact, globe-shaped deciduous tree that grows in a dense, bushy mound. It features the same distinctive fan-shaped, two-lobed leaves as the standard ginkgo. Leaves are rich green to blue-green during the growing season before transforming to a brilliant golden-yellow in the fall. When sold as a standard, it is grafted onto a single trunk, giving it the look of a small ornamental tree with a rounded canopy on top. At maturity, this dwarf cultivar reaches just 2 to 3 feet tall and wide and it one of the most compact ginkgo selections available.

The Troll Dwarf Ginkgo is an excellent choice for small garden spaces, container plantings, rock gardens, and patio settings. It is a male variety, so it will not produce the foul-smelling fruit that female ginkgo trees are known for. This tree has no serious insect or disease problems and tolerates a wide range of urban conditions, including air pollution, compacted soils, and heat. Its slow growth rate and striking fall color make it a unique and low-maintenance focal point in any landscape.

Troll Dwarf Ginkgo Tree Care

Give your Troll Dwarf Ginkgo full sun for best results, though it will tolerate partial shade. It grows well in average, medium-moisture, well-drained soil and adapts to a wide range of soil types, including clay, alkaline, and acidic soils. Water this tree regularly after planting until it is established. Once established, it is relatively tolerant of dry periods, but consistent moisture will support steady growth. Apply a balanced granular fertilizer in the spring before new growth emerges to promote healthy foliage.

Very little pruning is required for this dwarf tree. Remove any damaged or crossing branches as needed to maintain its naturally rounded shape. Because this cultivar grows only 2 to 3 inches per year, aggressive pruning is rarely necessary. If any shaping is desired, do so in late winter while the plant is still dormant. When grown as a standard, keep an eye on the graft union and remove any shoots that emerge from below it promptly.

Troll Dwarf Ginkgo Tree Spacing

Space Troll Dwarf Ginkgo trees at least 3 to 4 feet apart to allow room for their mature spread. When planted in a container, use a pot with a heavy base and adequate drainage to support the top growth. This tree works well as a specimen planting in a rock garden, small bed, or patio container. Keep it away from areas where its graft union or trunk could be damaged by heavy foot traffic or lawn equipment.

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