Davidia

Davidia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cornaceae, native to East Asia, particularly China and Japan. The genus is named after the French botanist David de Buad, who first described the plants. Davidia is characterized by its deciduous trees, which typically grow to a height of 10-20 meters. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate to elliptic in shape, with entire margins and a leathery texture. The flowers are small, white or pink, and arranged in dense, terminal panicles. They bloom in late spring to early summer, followed by the production of small, red or black fruits that are initially green. The fruits are drupes, containing a single seed. Davidia trees are valued for their ornamental qualities, with their attractive foliage and showy flowers making them popular choices for landscaping. They are also known for their resistance to pests and diseases, making them a durable choice for gardens and parks. The genus includes several species, with Davidia involucrata being the most commonly cultivated.