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Description
Davidia Involucrata, commonly called the Handkerchief Tree or Dove Tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Nyssaceae. It is native to China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks around the world. It can grow up to 20-25 meters tall and 10-12 meters wide. The tree is known for its unique and showy flowers that resemble white handkerchiefs or doves, hence the name Handkerchief Tree.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Genus | Davidia |
Appearance
The Handkerchief Tree has a broad, spreading, and open crown with a straight trunk. Its bark is grayish-brown and has a smooth texture when young, but as it ages, it becomes scaly and rough. The tree produces large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and can grow up to 20-30 cm long. In spring, the tree produces its showy flowers that are surrounded by two large, white bracts that look like handkerchiefs or doves. The flowers bloom for about two weeks and attract bees and butterflies. In fall, the tree produces small, round fruits that are about 2 cm in diameter and have a blackish-purple color.
Care Guide
Water: The Handkerchief Tree prefers moist, well-drained soil, so it is important to water it regularly during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.Soil: The tree prefers loamy, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.Sunlight: The Handkerchief Tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Handkerchief Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. To prevent these diseases, make sure the tree is planted in well-drained soil and receives adequate air circulation. If you notice any signs of disease, remove the affected leaves or branches and treat the tree with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Handkerchief Tree is native to central and southwestern China, where it grows in moist, well-drained soil in forests and along streams. It prefers areas with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. In cultivation, the tree is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Handkerchief Tree?
A: Water your Handkerchief Tree regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot.Q: What is the Hardiness Zone for the Handkerchief Tree?
A: The Handkerchief Tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.Q: How tall can the Handkerchief Tree grow?
A: The Handkerchief Tree can grow up to 20-25 meters tall and 10-12 meters wide.Q: What is the Handkerchief Tree known for?
A: The Handkerchief Tree is known for its unique and showy flowers that resemble white handkerchiefs or doves.
Related Plants
- Davidia involucrata var. vilmoriniana
- Davidia involucrata ‘Globosa’
- Davidia involucrata ‘Sonoma’
References
- “Davidia involucrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c469.
- “Davidia involucrata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14621/Davidia-involucrata/Details.
- “Davidia involucrata.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/handkerchief-tree.
