Orchid Tree

(Bauhinia variegata)

Orchid Tree (Bauhinia variegata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Bauhinia variegata, commonly known as Orchid Tree, is a tree or shrub that can be either evergreen or deciduous, native to open woodlands and forest edges in India and Southeast Asia. It typically grows to 10–12 meters (33–39 ft) tall and is deciduous during the dry season. The Orchid Tree is named for its showy, fragrant flowers that resemble orchids, with colors ranging from bright pink to white, each spanning 8–12 centimeters (3.1–4.7 in) in diameter. The flowering season extends from late winter to early spring, providing a spectacular display. The fruit is a distinctive seedpod, 15–30 centimeters (5.9–11.8 in) long, that dries and twists into a helical shape before explosively releasing seeds with an audible "clack."

The Orchid Tree is valued for its ornamental flowers, which are not only visually striking but also scented, enhancing the sensory appeal of gardens. It is commonly used in urban planting, as a specimen tree, and in border planting for its aesthetic qualities. Bauhinia variegata thrives in full sun and requires medium water, preferring well-drained soils. It is relatively easy to maintain, but gardeners should be aware of its potential to become invasive outside its native range. In the Neotropics, it is used to attract hummingbirds, such as the sapphire-spangled emerald (Amazilia lactea), glittering-bellied emerald, and white-throated hummingbird, to gardens and parks. However, it is potentially invasive in regions like the USA, Australia, and the Caribbean, and caution is advised when planting it in these areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-35 feet
  • Width: 20-35 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands and forest edges in India and Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Ebony , Orchidtree , Orgideëboom , Buntfarbene Bauhinie , Arbre De Saint-Thomas , Árvore-De-São-Thomaz , Orkidébauhinia , 白花羊紫荊 , Kachnar , Butterfly Tree

Scientific Names: Bauhinia variegata , Phanera variegata , Perlebia variegata , Bauhinia variegata subsp. chinensis , Bauhinia variegata var. alboflava , Bauhinia variegata var. purpurascens

GBIF Accepted Name: Bauhinia variegata L.