Handkerchief Tree, Dove Tree, Ghost Tree, Pocket Handkerchief Tree
Davidia involucrata, commonly known as the Dove Tree, Handkerchief Tree, Pocket Handkerchief Tree, or Ghost Tree, is a medium-sized deciduous tree celebrated for its distinctive floral display. Native to south-central and southwest China, this ornamental tree has captivated gardeners worldwide with its elegant beauty and historical significance. Enchanting in full bloom, the Dove Tree serves as both a striking specimen tree and a graceful shade provider.
Davidia was previously included in the dogwood family, Cornaceae, but is now part of the Nyssaceae family, which includes Water Tupelo (Nyssa aquatica) and Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica).
Davidia involucrata is native to montane mixed forests in central and southwestern China. It naturally occurs at elevations between 1,000 and 2,000 meters, typically growing in small, scattered stands within broadleaved forests.
The Dove Tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree characterized by a broad conical crown that becomes rounded with age. Its overall form is wide pyramidal in youth, becoming rounded or wide egg-shaped as it matures.
In cultivation, the Dove Tree usually reaches heights between 20 and 40 feet (6-12 m) with an equal spread. In its natural habitat, however, it can grow up to 60 feet (18 m).
The Dove Tree has an average to moderately rapid growth rate, depending significantly on environmental conditions. Under favorable circumstances—such as moist, well-drained, acidic soils, adequate sunlight, and protection from harsh winds—this tree can grow relatively quickly.
However, even under optimal conditions, the Dove Tree typically requires patience. It generally takes about 10 to 15 years before it begins flowering abundantly.
The Dove Tree typically has a lifespan ranging from 25 to 50 years.
The Dove Tree is famous for its unique and eye-catching flowers. The actual flowers are small, purplish-red, and clustered in tight, round groups no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) across.
Each cluster is surrounded by two large, white bracts—leaf-like structures that act like petals—measuring 5-10 inches (12-25 cm) long. These delicate bracts sway gracefully in the wind, creating the illusion of white doves or handkerchiefs draped over the branches.
The tree blooms abundantly in late spring to early summer, adding a spectacular display to the landscape.
After flowering, the Dove Tree produces round, russet-colored, golf ball-sized fruits that hang on stalks around 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) long. They contain between three to six seeds each.
The leaves are deciduous, heart-shaped, and finely toothed along the edges. They are symmetrical in shape and measure about 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) in length. Emerging bronze-colored in spring, they mature to bright green in summer and may turn vibrant shades of orange and red in the fall.
The bark of the Dove Tree is an attractive reddish-gray color with a mottled appearance. Its twigs are red-brown, adding further ornamental interest during winter months.
Davidia involucrata thrives best within USDA hardiness zones 6 through 8. It prefers sheltered locations due to sensitivity to late frosts.
Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
The Dove Tree is primarily pollinated by insects, especially bees and beetles. Its white bracts, which are UV-light-absorbing, serve as visual cues to attract pollinators. The tree also provides shelter for various small animals and birds due to its broad canopy and dense foliage.
Unlike many flowering trees, the Dove Tree does not produce nectar; its flowers rely solely on pollen as a reward for visiting insects
The Dove Tree is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.
The Dove Tree is considered resistant to both deer and rabbits. While no plant is entirely “deer-proof” or “rabbit-proof,” the Dove Tree is not typically a preferred food source for these animals. However, young trees may still be vulnerable to damage, especially during periods of food scarcity.
The Dove Tree is not considered invasive. It is a rare and endangered species native to China, where its populations have been declining due to habitat loss and human activity.
Keep the soil evenly moist during establishment (typically for the first year). Mature trees require deep watering once or twice per week during dry periods, ensuring moisture penetrates 18 inches (45 cm) into the soil. Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
Fertilize annually in early spring using a balanced granular fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10). Avoid fertilizing during planting or the first growing season to allow the tree to settle.
Prune young trees to develop a strong central leader and balanced branching structure. Established trees require minimal pruning; remove dead, diseased, or unruly branches after leaves have fallen in autumn or winter. Avoid heavy pruning of the crown, as this can disrupt its natural shape.
The Dove Tree can be grown from seeds, but it requires patience, as germination can take up to two years. The seeds need stratification—exposure to cold temperatures for 18-24 months—to break dormancy. They should be sown in moist, well-draining soil in autumn. Germination rates are often low, requiring multiple seeds.
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer can be used to propagate Dove Trees. Cut 6-8 inch (15-20 cm) semi-hardwood stems with several leaf nodes. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Plant in a moist, well-draining medium and keep under high humidity.
The Dove Tree is generally considered a low-maintenance tree with minimal susceptibility to pests and diseases. However, certain issues can arise under specific conditions. Below is a detailed overview of potential pests and diseases affecting the tree.
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 |
Plant Family | Nyssaceae, Cornaceae |
Common names | Ghost Tree, Dove Tree |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early), Fall, Winter |
Height | 20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m) |
Spread | 20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Attracts | Bees |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
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 |
Plant Family | Nyssaceae, Cornaceae |
Common names | Ghost Tree, Dove Tree |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early), Fall, Winter |
Height | 20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m) |
Spread | 20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Attracts | Bees |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
How many Davidia involucrata (Dove Tree) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Davidia involucrata (Dove Tree) | N/A | Buy Plants |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!