Davidia - Dove Tree, Ghost Tree, Pocket Handkerchief Tree

(David'ia)

DESCRIPTION: This very attractive, deciduous tree is a native of China. This tree grows from 20 to 40 feet high with its branches spreading a distance to match. It is fairly hardy, living in areas where the temperature doesn't fall below -10º F. It produces 3- to 6-inch, heart-shaped, long-stalked leaves that are covered with white fuzz on their undersides. This tree is commonly known as Dove Tree because of its interesting flowers. In the spring, 1-inch, ball-shaped, clusters of flowers are produced. These are surrounded by a pair of large, white, petal-like bracts of unequal proportions. The large one is about 7 inches long and half as wide and the other is about 3 or 4 inches long and about 2 inches wide. These bracts tremble in the slightest breeze making it look like a tree full of doves. Other common names include Ghost Tree and Pocket Handkerchief Tree. These pretty flowers last about 2 weeks and are succeeded by inedible, pear-shaped fruits about 11/2 inches long. Dove Trees don't usually begin to bloom until they are about 10 years old and even then some trees don't bloom every year.

POTTING: Grow Dove Trees in very light shade and deeply dug, well-drained loam that has been enriched with peat moss or leaf mold. It can be grown in sun if the soil is kept moist. Plant in early spring in a sheltered location. Make sure to water during periods of dry weather. Pruning, if necessary, should be done in the winter.

PROPAGATION: Seeds may be sown as soon as they are ripe, in sandy soil in a greenhouse or frame. The outer pulp should be taken off before they are planted. They should sprout within a few weeks. If the seeds are allowed to dry, however, they may not germinate for a year or more. The seedlings should be kept in a frame until there is no danger from frost and then planted in a nursery border. Once they are three years of age, they can be planted in their permanent positions. Cuttings of half-ripe side shoots can be taken in late summer and rooted in a closed frame. Young trees are more susceptible to low temperatures than older trees, so make sure to provide adequate winter protection in colder climates.

VARIETIES: D. involucrata.

Go see DICTIONARY OF BOTANICAL NAMES.

Back to our botanical home page.