Davidia involucrata

Handkerchief tree

Location

Magnolia Garden and Lilac Border - End of Main terrace

Description:

A hardy, moderately fast-growing tree to 20-25 m the leaves are mostly 10-20 cm long and 7-15 cm wide and are ovate to heart-shaped. Best known for its flowers they form a tight cluster about 1-2 cm across, reddish in colour, each flower head with a pair of large (12-25 cm), pure white bracts at the base performing the function of petals. These hang in long rows beneath the level branches. The flowers are at their best in late May. On a breezy day, the bracts flutter in the wind like white doves or pinched handkerchiefs, hence the English names for this tree. The tree is native to Central and Southwest China and was introduced in 1904.

Site and Care:

Grow in a well drained, fertile soil of any type, in sun or partial shade.