Dove tree’s cordate leaves are 2 to 6 inches long and look quite similar to those of the linden trees. They may change to orange or red before they drop. Though it appears that this tree has two very large white petals, they are actually bracts. The true flowers with reddish-purple anthers are clustered into a ball between the hanging bracts. One bract is usually 3 to 4 inches long and the other will be 6 to 7 inches long.

Light

This tree can be planted in a location with full sun or partial shade.

Soil

Pick a location in your yard that has good drainage. Moist soil is best.

Water

Dove tree has average water needs. Soil should be kept moist and watered regularly, approximately once a week in the growing season.

Temperature and Humidity

Dove trees thrive best in climates that are not too cold or hot. Leaves will wilt in extremely hot, humid conditions. They will grow in USDA zones 6 to 8. Avoid locations with strong winds.

Fertilizer

Fertilize every few years but not until the plant has been established.

Dove Tree Varieties

There are two different varieties of the Davidia involucrata plant: D. involucrata var. vilmoriniana and D. involucrata var. involucrata. The vilmoriniana plant is more tolerant of cold and can be grown in Zone 5. These are some common cultivars of dove tree:

The ‘Lady Sunshine’ cultivar has striking variegated leaves that are bright yellow with darker green in the center.‘Aya Nishiki’ is a unique cultivar with leaves that begin with light yellow margins and gradually become more mottled. Sometimes the margins turn purple, adding to the plant’s beauty.‘Crimson Spring’ features leaves that are burgundy colored when they first unfurl, gradually becoming green over time.

Propagating Dove Tree

Propagation can be carried out through seed germination, or by taking hardwood cuttings in winter or softwood cuttings in fall. The plant has a double dormancy and requires both warm and cold pre-treatments if propagated from seeds. Germination takes about two years on average. The tree is more likely to bloom sooner if it was created from a cutting. Seed-grown dove trees may not bloom for 10 years or more.