The tree known for its distinct fan-shaped leaves is the Ginkgo tree.
The Unique Leaves of the Ginkgo
The Ginkgo biloba, often referred to simply as the Ginkgo, is a truly unique species, often called a "living fossil" because it is the last surviving member of an ancient plant division. One of its most recognizable features is its distinctive leaf shape.
Based on the provided reference:
- The ginkgo has distinct leaves.
- The fan shaped leaves of Ginkgo are flat and irregularly notched.
- They are often deeply grooved in the middle of the leaf, producing two distinct lobes.
- This two-lobed characteristic gives rise to its scientific name, Ginkgo biloba (meaning "two lobes").
Here are some key characteristics of the Ginkgo leaf:
- Shape: Resembles a small fan or a duck's foot.
- Texture: Generally flat.
- Edges: Often irregularly notched along the top edge.
- Structure: Typically split or deeply grooved in the center, creating two lobes.
- Color: Bright green in spring and summer, turning a brilliant yellow in the fall before dropping.
These distinctive fan-shaped leaves make the Ginkgo tree easy to identify and contribute to its popularity as an ornamental tree in urban landscapes and parks around the world.
For more information on the Ginkgo tree, you can consult botanical resources or university extension websites like example.com/ginkgo-info.