Bauhinia are tropical or semi-tropical trees and shrubs or vines with two cleft leaves, which look like cloven animal feet. The flowers come in a wide array of colors and sizes from purple to pink to orange, yellow and white depending on the species They are sometimes called orchid trees because of the superficial resemblance of the flowers to certain types of orchids. They are not orchids but in the bean family. A popular species is the B. blakeana, aka Hong Kong Orchid tree.
Late winter-spring
Full sun
Water 1 x week during hot weather
Prune in Dec. any dead branches
Plant is spring or fall
Well-draining, slightly acidic soil
20-30 ft. x 25 ft.
