A RARE Chinese tree is now in full bloom after an incredible 31 -year wait.

The delicate white flowers of the Emmenopteris henryii tree have just started unfurling at Wakehurst, part of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in Ardingly.

It was back in 1987 that a full flowering was recorded.

Andrew Mash, gardens supervisor, said that the 100-year-old tree had a handful of flowers near the top 10 years ago, but this is the first time all the blossoms are blooming at the same time.

Andy said: “We have had a very cold February and March followed by soaring temperatures throughout May and June and these are the most favourable conditions to bring out the flowers. It is mimicking the weather it would have it parts of its native China.”