Ginkgo and Honey locust are often considered for the same spot in the garden (specimen, shade). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Ginkgo biloba 6 m × 5 m after 10 years
A distinctive, ancient tree with fan-shaped leaves that all turn brilliant golden yellow at once in autumn. It has almost no pests or diseases,…
Gleditsia triacanthos 7 m × 5 m after 10 years
A large tree with a loose crown and fine, fern-like foliage that casts only dappled shade, so lawn and other plants still grow underneath. It copes…
Honey locust grows faster than Ginkgo.
Honey locust needs less water than Ginkgo.
Ginkgo is cheaper: about €32 at the size usually planted, against about €56 for Honey locust.
|
Feature
|
Ginkgo
|
Honey locust
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Large tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 6 m × 5 m | 7 m × 5 m |
| Ultimate size | 15–25 m × 9–15 m | 9–24 m × 8–15 m |
| Growth rate | Slow | Fast |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–May, green | May–June, green, yellow |
| Water need | Medium | Low |
| Drought tolerance | High | High |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 800 cm | 800 cm |
| For dogs | Toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic |
| For cats | Toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic |
| For children | Toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €32 | approx. €56 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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