Bauhinia variegata (Orchid Tree)

Prized for its orchid-like flowers, Bauhinia variegata (Orchid Tree) is a small semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub or tree with a spreading canopy of light green leaves, 6-8 in. long (15-20 cm), deeply cleft at the apex and base, and resembling butterfly wings. Blooming profusely from late winter to early spring, ravishing orchid-like, bright pink, purple and white flowers, 2-3 in. across (5-7 cm), shine against the foliage and attract hummingbirds. Showy, they are borne in small clusters near the stem tips and feature five unequal petals, each narrowed to a claw. They are followed by flat, sharp-beaked pods, 12 in. long (30 cm). The foliage may drop in fall or persist into winter. A beautiful specimen shrub for the border or street tree for tropical, sub-tropical, and fairly frost-free areas (tolerates light frosts and temperatures down to 22°F or -6°C).

As a member of the Fabaceae (legume) family, it is related to peas and beans, and striking trees like Flamboyant, Orchid Tree, Silver Wattle, Red Bird of Paradise, Coral Tree, and Paloverde.

• Grows up to 20-35 ft. tall and wide (6-10 m).
• A full sun to light shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, well-drained soils. Protect from cold winds. Drought tolerant once established.
• Tend to grow as a multi-stemmed shrub, but if staked and pruned, it becomes an attractive tree.
• Flowers on old wood, so prune after flowering.
• Generally pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for aphids.
• Native to India, and China.
• The Orchid Tree is considered an environmental weed and invasive species in Cuba, the Bahamas, Australia, New Caledonia, and Florida.