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Genus Davidia (Dove tree, Ghost tree, Handkerchief tree, Laundry tree)

Common Name: Dove tree, Ghost tree, Handkerchief tree, Laundry tree

Only one species, D. involucrata, is classified in this genus. It is a deciduous tree from Chinese woodlands that, when in bloom, is quite unlike any other. In late spring, it looks like a tree full of fluttering white butterflies or doves. It makes an excellent landscape specimen.
Noteworthy characteristics: Dangling flowers with white bracts that resemble doves, butterflies, or handkerchiefs moving in a breeze. Fairly fast grower.
Care: Grow in a sheltered spot with fertile, moist but well-drained soil and full sun or part shade. Prune when dormant to establish a strong central leader when plant is young.
Propagation: Take hardwood cuttings in winter or leaf-bud cuttings in early fall. Plants propagated from seed may not bloom for two decades.
Problems: Usually problem-free.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Davidia

Davidia involucrata
(Dove tree, Ghost tree, Handkerchief tree) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This is a lovely species grown for its distinct pairs of 7-inch-long, assymetrical white bracts which hang from the branches in layers in late spring. Given room and maturity (seed-grown trees may not bloom for up to 20 years), this plant is notable in both form and flower.