Alphabetical Plant Listing

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.

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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

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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

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