Flowering from spring through to early summer Bauhinia Purpurea is commonly called the Purple Orchid Tree. In warmer climates, the flowering season can be almost year round. It is an evergreen tree, however it will drop some foliage in cool climates and can be deciduous in some colder areas.
This is a sub tropical to tropical species, small evergreen in its natural environmnet,
and grown for the masses of perfumed flowers. The flowers are followed by large seed pods, and the seeds can be collected for propagation.
Sometimes called the ‘Hong Kong Orchid’ although this is thought to be a sterile hybrid between Bauhinia purpurea itself and B. blakeana and has deeper pink to purple flowers. Although it is not exactly the same as Bauhinia purpurea, they look very similar.
Care
Best in a slightly alkaline soil, humus rich and with good drainage. Once established they do resent root disturbance so transplanting can be difficult.
In reasonable soils they require little fertiliser and are very easy care
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Bauhinia purpurea x B. blakeana
- Common Name – Purple Orchid Tree, Hong Kong Orchid
- Position – Full Sun
- Soil – humus rich well drained.
- Height – To around 6 metres
- Spread – To around 5 metres.
- Growth rate – Moderate in good conditions.
- Flowers – Large purple and fragrant.
- Foliage – Mid green.