Dove Tree, Handkerchief Tree
Davidia Involucrata
Type: Deciduous Tree
Exposure: Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular

This handsome shade tree will reach 30ft (9m) tall with a spread of anywhere from 15ft (4.5m) to 30ft (9m) in maturity. This is generally considered a problem-free tree, preferring moist but well drained soil, but its truly distinguishing feature is the brilliant white, 7in (17.5cm) long bracts that appear in cascading pairs in mid spring. These bracts surround small, reddish flowers, but the real stand-outs are the bracts themselves.

If you’re growing the tree for the “handkerchiefs,” be sure to look for a healthy, nursery grown tree; seed-grown specimens can take up to 20 years to flower (and form the bracts).

Cheers,

John