This Ginkgo tree was the state co-champion, or largest known specimen in the state, from June 1989 until February 1991. While this Ginkgo is much larger than the current state champion, the N.C. Forestry Service has declared that it will no longer take new nominations for non-native trees. This Ginkgo tree has grown so much that it has “consumed” the original Treasure Tree tag. It is located to the left of the main door on the Queens Road entrance of the Harris Welcome Center.

Statistics (1989/2019)

• Circumference (In.): 129"/250"
• Height (Ft.): 56'/60'
• Avg. Crown Spread (Ft.): 57'/65'
• Total Points: 199/326

More Information

• Nominated By: Tom Martin and Joe McLaurin
• Year Added: 1989
• Owned By: Queens University of Charlotte
• Current condition: Good
• Neighborhood: Myers Park
• Property Type: Private School
• Nearest Address: 1830 Queens Road
• Ecological Value: The Ginkgo is a prehistoric tree. The oldest fossils date back to the Permian period, over 270 million years ago. The species was thought to have died out in North America 7 million years ago and in Europe 2.5 million years ago, until a German scientist discovered them growing in Japan in the 17th century. The species had survived in China, where they were considered sacred, and were brought to Japan by Buddhist monks. The Ginkgo is a very good street tree, often utilized in Charlotte and even New York City.