Bauhinia blakeana (Hong Kong Orchid Tree)

Bauhinia blakeana, commonly known as Hong Kong orchid tree, is a spectacular flowering tree celebrated for its large orchid-like blooms and long flowering season. It originated in Hong Kong in the late nineteenth century as a sterile hybrid between Bauhinia variegata and Bauhinia purpurea.

The tree forms a broad, rounded canopy, typically reaching 20-40 feet tall. Its distinctive leaves are deeply divided into two rounded lobes, resembling a butterfly or camel's hoof - a hallmark of the genus.

The flowers are among the largest in the genus: rich magenta-purple with contrasting lighter markings, up to 5-6 inches across. In warm climates, blooming can continue from autumn through spring - an impressive display when little else is flowering. Sterility means the tree rarely sets seed pods and must be propagated vegetatively.

Bauhinia blakeana thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, becoming moderately drought tolerant once established. It adapts readily to urban landscapes, parks, and large gardens, and is one of the most widely planted ornamental Bauhinia species in subtropical regions (USDA Zones 9b-11). Mature trees can briefly tolerate temperatures down to 28 30F, though frost may damage foliage and young growth. See Article about Bauhinia blakeana.

See video about Hong Kong Orchid Tree

Learn more: Bauhinias: trees with Orchid Flowers and Butterfly Wings