Davidia involucrata
(Dove Tree, Ghost Tree, Handkerchief Tree)

Origin:  Native of China
Family:  Davidiaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade/light shade
Height:  >40'
Spacing:  20-40'
Blooms:  Unique pair of  7" long asymetrical white bracts surrounded a button-like stamens, lower bract is twice as long as the upper bract, late Spring
Foliage:  Scented, green on top, silver undersides, heart-shaped, coarse
Fruits:  3/4" across, round, pale yellow
Soil:  Well-drained, highly organic-rich, moist, highly acidic
Water:  Regular
Uses:  Ornamental, landscape, specimen
Propagation:  Seeds

Comments:  Davidia involucrata or Dove Tree or Ghost Tree or Handkerchief Tree is a unique deciduous pyramidal-shaped tree with a medium rate growth habit.  It is a native of China and is belongs to the nyssa family.  In late Spring, Davidia involucrata,  exquisite pairs of white bracts appear on the tree, followed later by round, pale yellow fruits.  Ghost Tree seeds, sown whole, can be propagated in a pot.  It usually takes 2 years to germinate and 15 years to flower.  Much patience is required but it is worthwhile when it finally rewards you with the most unusual flowers you've ever seen.  Propagation from softwood cuttings in the Fall or hardwood cuttings in Winter can also be done.  Dove Tree thrives best in well-drained, highly acidic, moist, organic-rich soil in a sunny to part shade or light shade landscape.  Sometimes Ghost Tree blooms only in alternate years. It is a fine specimen tree in the shade garden.  Handkerchief tree has lovely heart-shaped leaves and woody bark.  It needs protection from strong wind.  Davidia involucrata provides a delightful visual view at bloom time when the white, dove-like bracts which also look like folded white handkerchiefs hang from the branches of the tree.  Curious passerby stops to kill their curiosities of this fascinating rare tree.

USDA Zones:  5-8