The ginkgo tree is known as an ancient "living fossil", and its ancient identity has aroused great curiosity. These ancient trees are covered with white fruits, which further stimulates people's desire to explore. Sometimes walking down the street, it is not difficult to find these white fruits scattered on the ground, but it is rare for people to bend down to pick them up and eat one or two. This begs the question, why do these fruits fall to the ground so often, but no one finds them worth tasting?
Tracing the evolution of the ginkgo tree
The ginkgo tree, with a long history and an unfathomable lifestream dating back about 300 million years, is the only surviving species of ancient ginkgo biloba. This makes it one of the oldest and most primitive living organisms on Earth, known as a "living fossil". Its origins can be traced back to the Carboniferous Period, an ancient period that weathered the winds and frost and the Ice Age, but the ginkgo tree survived tenaciously and witnessed the long changes of the earth.
In summer, the leaves of the ginkgo tree take on a dark green color and flourish, adding a touch of life to nature. In autumn, the whole tree turns golden like a dream, and it is like a golden ocean covering the earth, making it one of the most beautiful scenery in nature. This unique appearance is not only a visual feast, but also a tenacious expression of life. During this season, the ginkgo tree becomes one of the most beloved sights in the world, especially in autumn and winter, when the golden leaves decorate the streets of the world like works of art, becoming a natural wonder in the eyes of people.
The mystery of the reproduction of the ginkgo tree
Ginkgo biloba trees exhibit significant sex differences during reproduction and need to be pollinated through reproductive organs to eventually form solid fruits. This gender difference is evident in Ginkgo biloba, which allows the ecosystem to maintain an ecological balance and form a unique biodiversity.
Wild ginkgo trees are relatively rare and difficult to find in their natural environment. The ginkgo trees that most people see are often cultivated through manual intervention and grafting techniques. This artificial intervention is not only to increase the number of ginkgo trees, but also to take advantage of its unique characteristics, such as golden autumn leaves and vigorous vitality. This allows the ginkgo tree to grow and spread more widely in human society and become one of the favorite ornamental plants of people.
Through artificial cultivation, the planting range of ginkgo biloba trees has been expanded, and it not only exists in the natural environment, but also becomes an ideal choice for beautification in urban parks, courtyards and other places.
The complexity of the "ginkgo seeds" eaten
The fruit of the ginkgo tree, known as the "ginkgo fruit", has a unique shape that resembles a pistachio, which has aroused great interest. However, ginkgo seeds contain the acidic substance "ginkgolic acid" and the toxin "hydrocyanic acid", both of which can cause allergic reactions and poisoning when eaten raw. To avoid potential risks, ginkgo seeds need to be cooked before eating, so that harmful substances are removed and can be enjoyed safely. Therefore, whether it is baked, boiled, or steamed, it is a common way to treat ginkgo seeds.
In the process of eating ginkgo seeds, you also need to pay attention to the appropriate amount. Excessive consumption may lead to the accumulation of ginkgic acid and hydrocyanic acid, increasing the risk of poisoning. Therefore, it is important for people to carefully control the amount of food consumed when tasting this delicious fruit to ensure health and safety.
Historically, Li Shimin of the Tang Dynasty ordered the extensive planting of ginkgo trees in the temple, so that ginkgo became popular in the temple. There are different opinions about whether ginkgo seeds are edible or not. Some conventional wisdom holds that ginkgo seeds have medicinal properties, while others emphasize the toxicity of ginkgo seeds. This has made ginkgo a controversial ingredient, and various methods of processing and cooking have developed in different regions to ensure that people can safely enjoy this delicious and historically rich food.
epilogue
As a "living fossil", the ginkgo tree has carried a rich culture and vitality throughout its long history. Its unique appearance and auspicious meaning have made it an internationally loved plant. Ginkgo seeds, the fruit of the ginkgo tree, are difficult to eat, but with proper treatment, they can be a delicious ingredient.
While respecting nature, we should also cherish and inherit this "living fossil" that has lasted for hundreds of millions of years, and give full play to its unique charm in terms of culture, landscape and food. Don't ignore the value of the ginkgo tree because of temporary troubles, and let this "living fossil" continue to shine in human civilization.