Handkerchief Tree at Cliveden house

This Handkerchief tree (Davidia involucrata) is, apparently, the favourite tree of many of the volunteers who work at the National Trust property of Cliveden House.

I understand why because, when I saw it, it made me stop dead in my tracks and take notice, as well as the odd photograph, of course. 😁

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The handkerchief tree is native to central China and grows at a moderately fast rate, reaching about 20-25 m in height.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The tree is best known for its flowers which form a tight cluster and is known as the Handkerchief tree for obvious reasons, i.e. because the white bracts look like folded handkerchiefs around the flower heads.

I especially love the trees at this time of year because the greens are so verdant.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~