In the Hortus Botanicus of Leiden stands the golden pearl of the Netherlands: the Ginkgo biloba. This Japanese Walnut tree, planted in 1785, is the second oldest specimen in Europe. The species itself is the oldest on our planet, having seen the dinosaurs walking, and survived through worship near Chinese monasteries because of its symbolic value of love and hope. The 22-meter-tall tree is a hermaphroditic, recognizable by its witches broom and beautiful autumn colours, making it a jewel to visit.