Davidia involucrata, the dove tree, ghost tree, handkerchief tree, pocket handkerchief tree, or is a medium-sized deciduous tree in the family Nyssaceae. It is the only living species in the genus Davidia. It was previously included with tupelos in the dogwood family, Cornaceae.
Botanical Classification
The Dove Tree, scientifically known as Davidia involucrata, is a deciduous ornamental tree in the Nyssaceae family, which also includes tupelos. Its botanical classification places it in the monotypic genus Davidia, meaning it is the sole species within this genus, highlighting its unique characteristics.
Often called the handkerchief tree or ghost tree, it is celebrated for its distinctive white bracts that resemble fluttering doves, making it a prized specimen in horticulture. The specific epithet involucrata refers to the involucres (bracts) surrounding its flowers, a defining feature of its ornamental appeal.
Native area and distribution
Native to southwestern China, Davidia involucrata is primarily found in the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Hubei, growing in mixed forests on mountain slopes at elevations of 3,600-8,500 feet. Its natural distribution is limited to these temperate, high-altitude regions, where it thrives in moist, well-drained soils.
The tree has been introduced to North America, Europe, and other temperate regions as an ornamental since the early 20th century, but it remains relatively rare in cultivation due to its specific growing requirements and slow growth rate. Its scarcity in the wild has also raised conservation concerns in its native range.
History
Historically, the Dove Tree was first documented by Western science in 1869 by French missionary and botanist Père Armand David, after whom it is named. It gained attention in Europe after British plant hunter Ernest Wilson collected its seeds in 1901, introducing it to Western gardens.
Initially challenging to propagate, it became a sensation among horticulturists for its unique bracts, earning nicknames like “handkerchief tree” for their resemblance to dangling cloths. By the mid-20th century, cultivars like var. vilmoriniana (with smoother leaves) were developed to enhance its adaptability, solidifying its status as a collector’s plant in ornamental gardening.
USDA Zones
The Dove Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 6a to 8b, tolerating temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C), making it suitable for temperate regions of North America, the United Kingdom, and parts of Europe. It prefers partial shade to full sun, thriving in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5-7.0).
It is sensitive to drought and poorly drained conditions, requiring consistent moisture, especially during establishment. Its slow growth and specific needs make it less common in urban settings but ideal for woodland gardens or protected sites.
Identifying Characteristics
Davidia involucrata typically grows 20-50 feet tall, occasionally reaching 65 feet, with a broad, pyramidal canopy and a single trunk. Its leaves are alternate, heart-shaped, 3-6 inches long, with serrated edges and a glossy, dark green surface, turning reddish-orange in fall.
The most striking feature is its paired, creamy-white bracts—unequal in size (the larger 4-8 inches long, the smaller 3-4 inches)—that hang beneath small, spherical flower heads in late spring (April-May), resembling doves or handkerchiefs fluttering in the breeze. These bracts, which protect the inconspicuous purplish flowers, create a dramatic display.
The fruit is a hard, oval drupe, about 1 inch long, green with purple tinges, ripening to brown and persisting into fall. The bark is grayish-brown, peeling slightly with age, and the tree’s overall form is open and elegant, with a slightly tiered branching pattern. The leaves emit a faint, musky odor when crushed, and the tree’s slow growth adds to its refined, aristocratic appearance.
Landscape Uses
Specimen Plant:
- Serves as a standout focal point in gardens due to its unique white bracts resembling doves or handkerchiefs, creating a dramatic spring display.
- Ideal for lawns, woodland gardens, or large borders where its elegant form and slow growth can be showcased.
Woodland and Shade Gardens:
- Thrives in partially shaded settings, making it perfect for naturalistic or woodland landscapes alongside ferns, hostas, or azaleas.
- Enhances understory plantings with its airy canopy and striking bracts, adding a whimsical touch.
Seasonal Interest:
- Spring: Showy white bracts and small flowers (April-May); Fall: Reddish-orange foliage; Winter: Attractive branching structure and persistent fruit.
- Bracts create a fleeting but memorable display, drawing attention in late spring.
Collector’s Plant:
- Rare and prized by horticultural enthusiasts, adding prestige to botanical collections or specialty gardens.
- Often planted in arboreta or heritage gardens for its historical significance and unique appearance.
Mixed Plantings:
- Pairs well with shade-tolerant shrubs or perennials like rhododendrons, camellias, or hydrangeas for textural and color contrast.
- Complements trees with contrasting foliage, such as evergreens or maples, in large landscapes.
Urban and Small Gardens:
- Suitable for larger urban parks or estates due to its eventual size (20-50 feet); less ideal for small residential plots unless space allows.
- Requires protection from wind and urban stressors like pollution or compacted soil.
Wildlife Appeal:
- Flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in garden settings.
- Persistent fruits may attract birds, though not a primary food source.
Challenges:
- Slow growth (1-2 feet per year) requires patience for full ornamental impact.
- Bracts and fruits may drop, creating minor litter in formal settings.
Cultivation of Dove Tree (Davidia involucrata)
Site Requirements
- Light: Prefers partial shade (filtered sun or morning sun with afternoon shade); tolerates full sun in cooler climates but may scorch in hot, direct sun.
- Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile loams; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0); intolerant of heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
- Hardiness: USDA Zones 6a-8b, tolerating temperatures to -10°F (-23°C); protect from late frosts in colder zones.
Planting
- Plant in early spring or fall to establish roots before extreme temperatures; space 15-25 feet apart to accommodate mature spread.
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball; mix in organic matter (e.g., compost) to improve drainage and fertility.
- Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch (e.g., bark or leaf mold), keeping it 2 inches from the trunk to prevent rot.
Watering
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy during the first 2-3 years; water deeply weekly, especially during dry spells.
- Once established, moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering in prolonged heat or drought.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, particularly in poorly drained soils.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to support growth; avoid high-nitrogen formulas to prevent excessive leafiness at the expense of flowering.
- Alternatively, use organic compost or well-rotted manure annually to enrich soil.
Pruning
- Minimal pruning needed; remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before bud break.
- Shape young trees to a single leader for a strong structure; avoid heavy pruning, as it may reduce bract production.
- Remove basal suckers to maintain a tidy appearance or tree-like form; disinfect tools to prevent disease spread.
Pests and Diseases
- Generally pest-resistant; occasional issues include aphids or scale, treatable with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot in humid, poorly ventilated conditions; ensure good air circulation.
- Root rot possible in wet soils; prioritize excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
Propagation
- Seeds: Collect drupes in fall, clean, and stratify (cold, moist conditions for 3-4 months); germination is slow (1-2 years) and erratic.
- Cuttings: Take 4-6 inch softwood cuttings in early summer, treat with rooting hormone, and plant in a moist, well-draining mix; success rate is low.
- Grafting: Common for cultivars (e.g., var. vilmoriniana); graft onto seedling rootstock for reliable propagation.
Maintenance
- Protect young trees from wind and late spring frosts, which can damage emerging bracts or leaves.
- Mulch annually to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, especially in warmer climates.
- Monitor for nutrient deficiencies (e.g., yellowing leaves) and adjust fertilization if needed.
Challenges
- Slow to mature (10-20 years for significant bract display), requiring long-term commitment.
- Sensitive to drought and poor drainage; ensure consistent moisture and proper soil conditions.
- May not flower or produce bracts annually in suboptimal conditions (e.g., too much shade or nutrient stress).
- Fruits and bracts create light litter; rake as needed in formal landscapes.