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Description
Bauhinia is a genus of about 300 species of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, which is commonly known as the legume or pea family. Also known as orchid tree, butterfly tree, and mountain ebony, Bauhinia is a beautiful and hardy plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a deciduous or evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Bauhinia |
Appearance
Bauhinia has a unique and distinctive appearance due to its bi-lobed leaves, which resemble the shape of a butterfly. The leaves are usually large, up to 8 inches long and wide, and can be green or purple, depending on the species. The flowers of Bauhinia are also quite striking and come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and yellow. They are usually large and showy, and often resemble orchids, hence the name orchid tree. The flowers bloom in clusters and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Bauhinia is a relatively easy plant to care for, and with proper care, it can thrive in a range of environments. Here are some tips to keep your Bauhinia healthy:- Water: Bauhinia prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Bauhinia benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.- Soil: Bauhinia prefers a slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs good drainage to prevent waterlogging.- Sunlight: Bauhinia thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom properly.- Hardiness Zones: Bauhinia is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bauhinia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common problems, including:- Scale insects: These small, flat insects can infest the leaves and stems of Bauhinia, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves of Bauhinia, which can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. It can be treated with fungicides.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of Bauhinia, which can lead to yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. It can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Bauhinia is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows in a range of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. Bauhinia is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bauhinia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Bauhinia can grow in containers, but it needs a large pot with good drainage and regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune my Bauhinia?
A: Bauhinia should be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. You can also prune it to shape and control its size.
Q: Does Bauhinia attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Bauhinia is a popular plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its showy flowers.
Q: Can I propagate Bauhinia from cuttings?
A: Yes, Bauhinia can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in early summer or late fall. Rooting hormone can help to encourage root growth.
Related Plants
– Caesalpinia- Cassia- Delonix- Sophora- Tipuana
References
– “Bauhinia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bauhinia.- “Bauhinia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c298.- “Bauhinia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=false&query=Bauhinia.
