As part of his official visit to the United Kingdom, PM Narendra Modi met with King Charles III at Sandringham House. In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, the PM Modi presented His Majesty with a sapling of Davidia involucrata ‘Sonoma’, commonly known as the Sonoma dove tree or handkerchief tree.
The gift was made under Modi’s ongoing initiative, ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, which encourages individuals to plant a tree in honour of their mothers — a campaign blending environmental consciousness with emotional tribute.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “His Majesty King Charles III is very passionate about nature, environment and sustainable living. Thus, his joining the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (a tree for Mother) movement is very noteworthy and will inspire people around the world (sic).”
The Sonoma dove tree is celebrated for its striking white bracts that resemble fluttering handkerchiefs or doves in flight. Unlike the traditional Davidia involucrata, which can take up to two decades to bloom, the ‘Sonoma’ variety begins flowering within two to three years — making it not only symbolic, but also a fast-growing emblem of new beginnings.
