Bauhinia Acuminata

Description

Bauhinia Acuminata is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand. It is also known as the White Orchid Tree or Dwarf White Bauhinia.The plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are shaped like a pair of butterfly wings, hence the name Butterfly Tree. The leaves are divided into two lobes, which are further divided into smaller lobes. The tree produces fragrant, white flowers that bloom in clusters from late winter to early spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Bauhinia Acuminata can grow up to 6 meters tall and 4 meters wide. The tree has a spreading crown and a smooth, gray-brown bark. The leaves are 5-12 cm long and 6-14 cm wide. The flowers are 5-7.5 cm in diameter and have five petals.The tree produces long, slender seed pods that are 10-15 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The seed pods contain 8-12 seeds that are flattened and brown.

Care Guide

Water: Bauhinia Acuminata requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The tree should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, loamy soil. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.Sunlight: Bauhinia Acuminata prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Bauhinia Acuminata is susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. It can also attract aphids and spider mites. Regular pruning and maintaining good air circulation can help prevent these problems.

Habitat

Bauhinia Acuminata is native to India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in forests, grasslands, and along rivers.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Bauhinia Acuminata a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Bauhinia Acuminata is often used in landscaping for its attractive flowers and foliage.Q: Can Bauhinia Acuminata tolerate drought?
A: No, the tree requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought.Q: How often should Bauhinia Acuminata be pruned?
A: The tree should be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring.Q: Can Bauhinia Acuminata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.

Related Plants

• Bauhinia Variegata
• Bauhinia Purpurea
• Bauhinia Tomentosa
• Bauhinia Blakeana

References

• “Bauhinia acuminata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287718. Accessed 8 Oct. 2021.
• “Bauhinia acuminata.” PlantNet, plantnet.org.za/Plant.aspx?PlantID=181. Accessed 8 Oct. 2021.
• “Butterfly Tree, Bauhinia acuminata.” Floridata, floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Bauhinia+acuminata/357. Accessed 8 Oct. 2021.