Contents
Description
Davidia is a genus of flowering trees, commonly known as the handkerchief or dove tree, with only two species – Davidia involucrata and Davidia involucrata var. vilmoriniana. Native to China, these deciduous trees are known for their unique flowers that resemble white handkerchiefs or doves resting on the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Genus | Davidia |
Appearance
Davidia trees can grow up to 20-40 feet tall and wide, with a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and dark green, turning yellow or reddish-purple in the fall. In the spring, the trees produce clusters of small, reddish-purple flowers that are surrounded by large, white bracts that resemble handkerchiefs or doves. The flowers are very fragrant and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Davidia trees prefer well-draining, moist soil and full sun to partial shade. They are hardy in zones 6-8 and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°F. Here are some care tips for Davidia trees:- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Plant in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Davidia trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may occasionally be affected by the following:- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.- Japanese beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves and flowers of Davidia trees. Treat with insecticide or handpick them off the tree.
Habitat
Davidia trees are native to China and are found in forests, riverbanks, and mountain valleys. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Davidia tree?
A: Water your Davidia tree deeply once a week during dry periods, and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Davidia trees?
A: Davidia trees are hardy in zones 6-8.
Q: Are Davidia trees resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Davidia trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, or Japanese beetles.
Q: Where are Davidia trees found in the wild?
A: Davidia trees are native to China and are found in forests, riverbanks, and mountain valleys.
Related Plants
– Nyssa sylvatica (black gum)- Cornus florida (flowering dogwood)- Magnolia x soulangeana (saucer magnolia)
References
– “Davidia involucrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b620- “Davidia involucrata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1199/Davidia-involucrata/Details – “Davidia involucrata.” Plant Heritage. https://www.plantheritage.org.uk/national-plant-collections/search-the-national-plant-collections/collection/65/davidia-involucrata/
