Evolutionary history is unresolved. Morphological and molecular data show a wide range of possible relationships with cycads and conifers.[1]
Ginkgo leaves were borne on both long and short shoots on lateral branches of the main stem. They are recognized by their distinctive leaf shape and open dichotomous venation pattern. Ginkogoales are spermatophytes, belong to the lignophyte clade, and are euphyllophytes.[1]
References
^ abWillis, K.J.; McElwain, J.C. (2014). The Evolution of Plants. Oxford.
Paleobotany, Second Edition: The Biology and Evolution of Fossil Plants by Thomas N. Taylor, Edith L. Taylor and Michael Krings - Page 748
North America Through Time: A Paleontological History of Our Continent by Lynne M. Clos - Page 172
Jurassic and Cretaceous Floras and Climates of the Earth by V. A. Vakhrameev, Norman F. Hughes and Ju V. Litvinov - Page 110
Fossil Plants: A Text-Book for Students of Botany and Geology (Cambridge Library Collection - Earth Science) by A. C. Seward - Page 10