Davidia involucrata (Dove Tree)
Handkerchief Tree, Dove Tree, Ghost Tree, Pocket Handkerchief Tree
A splendid specimen tree, award-winning Davidia involucrata (Dove Tree) is a medium-sized deciduous tree of pyramidal-oval habit, noted for its striking flowers in late spring to early summer. Borne in rounded clusters, they boast a pair of large, creamy-white floral bracts, up to 12 in. long (30 cm), which subtend small, reddish-purple flower heads. Reminiscent of white dove tails or handkerchiefs fluttering in the breeze, they create a truly spectacular display. The blossoms give way to round, russet-colored, golf ball-sized fruits on 2-3 in. stems (5-7 cm). The foliage of vivid green, heart-shaped, strongly serrated leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm), sometimes turns bright orange and red in the fall. The exfoliating, cinnamon-brown bark is also attractive and provides winter interest. Enchanting in full bloom, Dove Tree makes a remarkable shade tree or landscape tree.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
- Grows up to 20-40 ft. tall and wide (6-12 m).
- This plant is best grown in full sun to part shade in organically rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils. Plant in a protected location.
- Perfect for shrub borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, or containers.
- Virtually pest and disease free.
- No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
- Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings. When grown from seed, it may take up to 10 years for the tree to flower.
- Native to southwestern China.
Buy Davidia involucrata (Dove Tree)
Requirements
Hardiness | 6
– 8 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 6
– 8 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 |
Plant Type | Trees |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early) Fall Winter |
Height | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
Spread | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
Picmin, Patjo / Shutterstock
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 6
– 8 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 6
– 8 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 |
Plant Type | Trees |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early) Fall Winter |
Height | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
Spread | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |