Deciduous tree Grows about 10–15 metres tall the crown shape often likened to a lime (Tilia). Branchlets glabrous, with a glaucous bloom at first. Leaves also resembling a lime, alternate, 8–15 × 7–12 cm, ovate, base cordate, margin serrate, apex acuminate, the upper surface silky-hairy, can live for many decades
Common Names – Handkerchief Tree, Dove Tree, Ghost Tree.
What does it look like?
Leaves, Heart-shaped, Green in summer, Turn yellow/orange in autumn.
Flowers,
* Bloom in late spring (May–June)
* Have two large white “bracts” that look like handkerchiefs or doves
* True flowers are small and hidden in the centre
Fruit
* Hard, oval brown fruit
* Contains 3–6 seeds
Where Is It Found?
Native to: ** Central & southwest China
Habitat: Mountain forests and woodland valleys
Also grown in: UK, Europe, North America, botanical gardens worldwide
🐝 Value to Wildlife
* Provides pollen for bees and insects
* Offers shelter and nesting space for birds
* Not a major food source but supports woodland biodiversity.
Interesting Facts
* It is the **only species in its genus** (very rare botanically).
* Takes **8–20 years before it flowers**.
* Named after French naturalist **Armand David**.
* Fossils show similar trees existed millions of years ago
Uses
* Grown mainly as an **ornamental tree** in parks and large gardens.
* Planted as a special feature tree because of its unusual flowers.
Conservation
* Rare in the wild due to habitat loss.
* Protected in parts of China.
* Widely grown in gardens, helping conserve the species.
🕊 Symbolism
* The white bracts look like doves.
* Often symbolises **peace, purity, and patience
In one sentence:
The Handkerchief Tree is a rare Chinese tree famous for its large white spring bracts that look like doves or handkerchiefs hanging from its branches.