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.

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.

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.

Davidia involucrata.