Davidia involucrata
Ghost Tree, Dove Tree, Handkerchief Tree
Commonly known as the Dove or Handkerchief Tree, this is a medium sized tree grown for its interesting flowers. Extraordinary flowers in spring resemble white handkerchiefs which hang and flutter beneath the foliage. This display is quite unusual and impressive. The leaves on this deciduous tree emerge dark green in spring, remain this colour until autumn, then develop yellow tones before falling. It grows upright with a spreading crown to about 8 m tall and 6 m wide, but can be trimmed as necessary. Best performance with this tree is achieved when it is grown in full sun on a well-drained, sheltered site. It is tolerant frost, cool climates, and short periods of dry. The Dove Tree is commonly grown as a specimen in parks and larger gardens, or included anywhere an interesting and impressive tree is required.
