Ginkgo ‘Yellow Mellow’ 40/60cm (3L)

Ginkgo biloba ‘Yellow Mellow’ is a truly exceptional variegated form of the ancient maidenhair tree, offering a spectacular display of golden yellow foliage that brings luminous colour to gardens throughout the year. This remarkable cultivar originated as a variegated sport on Ginkgo biloba ‘Tremonia’ in the Netherlands, where keen-eyed nursery staff spotted its unique characteristics and introduced it to the horticultural trade. The name ‘Yellow Mellow’ perfectly captures the soft, mature golden tones that adorn its distinctive fan-shaped leaves.

The foliage of ‘Yellow Mellow’ is absolutely captivating, with each leaf displaying variable patterns of golden yellow variegation. Some leaves showcase bold yellow streaks running through the characteristic fan shape, whilst others appear segmented with irregular blocks of colour. Occasionally, the plant produces entirely yellow leaves, creating stunning all-gold shoots, though these tend to be more delicate and may scorch in intense sunlight before withering away. This natural variation means no two plants look exactly alike, and the display changes throughout the growing season.

Unlike the species which can grow into a towering tree, ‘Yellow Mellow’ maintains a compact, upright habit with short side growths, making it perfectly suited to smaller gardens or even large containers.

The ancient Ginkgo lineage means this plant is remarkably resilient, tolerating urban pollution, compacted soils, and a wide range of conditions. However, ‘Yellow Mellow’ performs best in dappled light rather than full sun, as the variegated foliage can be susceptible to scorching during intense summer sunshine. Morning sun with afternoon shade proves ideal, or a position beneath the light canopy of larger trees.

Plant your Ginkgo ‘Yellow Mellow’ in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Whilst it tolerates various soil types, it thrives in neutral to slightly acidic conditions. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system, then reduce watering as the plant becomes drought-tolerant once established. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant variegation.

Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead or damaged wood in late winter. If all-yellow shoots appear and begin to decline, simply prune them back to variegated growth. This slow-growing treasure is remarkably low-maintenance, remaining pest and disease-free in British gardens. The fan-shaped leaves turn buttery gold in autumn before dropping, providing a final seasonal flourish.

Ultimate height
4–8 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.