This tree is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moist, well-drained soil that isn't prone to long periods of drought
• Rate of growth: fast-growing
• Flowering period: May
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  An unusual, deciduous tree with gorgeous heart-shaped, dark green leaves with soft white down underneath and large, white bracts that surround the small flowers in late spring. It is from these bracts that it gets its common names - dove tree or handkerchief tree - as they supposedly look like doves resting on the branches or handkerchiefs drying. It is a wonderful tree that can often take 10 years to produce lots of flowers although you may get a few blooms earlier on.
  
  The tree in a 10 litre pot is approximately 3 years old.
  
  
• Garden care: Requires minimal pruning but you will need to maintain a strong central leader in the first few years. Remove any broken, diseased or crossing branches in late autumn or winter. When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly.