Ginkgo leaves are not only beautiful in their form and structure, but are celebrated symbols of hope, strength, and resilience. The tree on which the leaf grows - the ginkgo tree - is native to Southeast Asia, and now flourishes in parts of the United States as well. The lifespan of the ginkgo can be well over a thousand years, and its existence has been traced back to before theMesozoic Era. Since other organisms existing at this time are now extinct, the ginkgo tree is considered a true “living fossil.”
Its historic existence and longevity is only one part of this remarkable tree, which has become known as an expert in survival. During the atomic explosion on Hiroshima, which devastated plant, animal, and human lives, ginkgo trees remained alive - and even generated new growth within days of the bombing. The distinct and elegant leaves of the gingko have come to represent peace amidst destruction; stability during upheaval; hope in the face of despair.
