Simply..handkerchiefs....

25/5/2014

No, not to wipe away my tears at my old art school going on fire, but hanging on the 'handkerchief tree'!

We went specially to Benmore Botanic Gardens to see this beautiful specimen in its full splendour.

It's Davidia involucrata, also known as the Chinese dove tree and was introduced from China by the plant collector Father Armand David in the 19th century.

The actual flower is small and can just be seen in the centre here inside the two white bracts..

This one is about ten metres high and we've never seen it quite so full of handkerchiefs/doves..

Between the beauty of the tree and a wonderful sunset, a walk with a friend and this upbeat message from broadcaster, fellow alumna and chair of the Glasgow School of Art board of governors Muriel Gray, I feel quite uplifted.

Do you find solace in nature at times?

I often say beauty sustains me, and it's true.

PS I'm featured on Miss Minimalist today - www.missminimalist.com - an essential site for the would-be minimalist (though looking round I'm wondering if I really deserve the title 'minimalist'! Well, I'm working towards it.....and enjoying the journey).

13 Comments

lucent imagery link

25/5/2014 03:23:41 pm

I have never seen a hankerchief tree, how lovely! I was just telling my husband that when we get to Scotland one day we'll have to try meet with you. I was trying to describe what I know of where you live - is it on a fjord or lake? Beautiful sunset!

Freda

26/5/2014 05:39:15 am

It's a sea loch (similar to a fjord) and I'd love to show it to you one day!

Sarah link

25/5/2014 07:41:28 pm

Firstly what a lovely surprise it was to see you featured on Miss Minimalist today! It was a lovely piece about your simple life.That is wonderful handkerchief tree is looks magnificent! I often find solace in nature. Sarah x

Freda

26/5/2014 05:41:02 am

I thought it was tomorrow on Miss Minimalist....I know from your beautiful blog that you love nature too.

rusty duck link

25/5/2014 08:46:09 pm

Oooh, I have a Davidia and am waiting for the first bracts. It doesn't like root disturbance though. I had it in my last garden, dug it up and kept it in a pot for three years, then planted it here. It's sulking I know. But sometimes I can be patient.

Freda

26/5/2014 05:42:09 am

Worth waiting for Jessica - I look forward to the photographs!

Ann

25/5/2014 10:18:38 pm

Your photo seems to show a "dove" formation in the clouds! It's such a coincidence after reading about your "dove tree" .......
I'm new to your blog but must say I've enjoyed reading it immensely.

Freda

26/5/2014 05:43:43 am

You are right! How remarkable! Welcome to my blog Ann, I'm so glad you're enjoying it.

cath

26/5/2014 02:39:04 am

Being in nature is a trusted way for me to find both consolation and new perspective when needed. The tree is very unusual and beautiful, as well as new to me. A heartfelt round of applause for the Glaswegian firebrigade.

Freda

26/5/2014 05:45:43 am

I do so agree with the three cheers! We too often take these people for granted I fear.

Cathy

26/5/2014 07:31:21 am

Found you by way of Miss Minimalist and like you I'm working my way to minimalism. Your blog name says it all.
I've never heard of a handkerchief tree. Always something new to learn.

Freda

26/5/2014 08:33:59 am

Welcome Cathy, it seems we are on the same journey (I love learning something new...)

elaine link

26/5/2014 05:18:03 pm

What a superb tree - if only I had the space for one. Mother Nature certainly knows what she is doing.

Simply..handkerchiefs....

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