Bract Tree

Bract Tree (Davidia Involucrata) - A remarkable tree from the mountains of C. China, where the winters are severe, it has proved hardy in this country. It belongs to the Dogwood family, and the large white bracts are more showy than the flowers. It is described by Dr Henry as a large tree, bearing thousands of flowers, which are most peculiar. Inside a pair of white bracts about the size of the hand is a head of redanthered stamens, and a tree in full flower is a marvellous sight, owing to the alternate white and green caused by the large bracts intermingling with the leaves. Its value for our islands is known, and a subject of such ornament and distinction merits the best positions among the choice trees and shrubs.