1.6" Detailed Ginkgo Cranei Fossil Plant Leaf Morton County, ND Paleocene Age COA

Ginkgo Cranei Fossil Leaf – Rare Paleocene Plant Fossil

Step into the prehistoric world with this stunning Ginkgo Cranei fossil leaf, dating to the early Paleocene Epoch, approximately 66–56 million years ago. This remarkable specimen comes from a pivotal period immediately following the Cretaceous–Paleogene mass extinction, which led to the disappearance of non-avian dinosaurs, giant marine reptiles, and numerous other species, opening ecological niches for new plant and animal life. During the Paleocene, Earth’s climate was warm and ice-free, supporting dense tropical, subtropical, and deciduous forests worldwide, including polar regions. These forests were among the first recognizably modern rainforests, thriving in the absence of large grazing dinosaurs.

The Paleocene also marked the rise of modern plant lineages, including early flowering plants (angiosperms), cacti, and palms, which coevolved with the insects that fed on and pollinated them. The Ginkgo Cranei leaf fossil preserves intricate details of leaf structure, offering a rare window into the composition, diversity, and resilience of early modern forests. Fossils like this illustrate how vegetation recovered and flourished after one of Earth’s greatest extinction events.

Perfect for fossil collectors, paleobotany enthusiasts, educators, and museums, this Ginkgo Cranei fossil leaf is both a scientific treasure and a visually striking display piece. It provides a tangible connection to prehistoric forests and the early evolution of modern plant life, combining educational value, rarity, and natural beauty for any collection or exhibit.