The Purple Orchid Tree ( Bauhinia purpurea ) is a fast growing; deciduous tree that is native to South Asia. It grows on average to heights of between 4-10 metres and is popular as an ornamental or street tree for its beautiful purple flowers.
Bauhinia purpurea has been used in traditional medicine for a huge range of reasons and some studies have been conducted into its phytochemical and pharmacological properties, although more is needed.
Other common names include the Purple Bauhinia; Camel’s Foot Tree; Hong Kong Orchid Tree; Purple Butterfly Tree and Geranium Tree.
Growth
Bauhinia acuminata is a deciduous perennial growing to approximately 4-10 metres tall and a similar width, the tree has beautiful unusually shaped leaves, that are around 10 cm in size that can be described as a Siamese twin leaf, or a camel’s hoof and basically look like 2 leaves have attached and grown together. The purple-fuchsia flowers are around 12 cm’s in diameter; have 5 petals and bloom in autumn.
Although it is native to tropical areas, the Purple Orchid Tree can be grown successfully in temperate areas; but will need extra care in the way of protection from frost; drought and wind. The branches of this species can be broken during stormy weather; so, it is best planted in a spot where it will have some protection from heavy winds.
Orchid trees can be grown in pots and containers.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Fabaceae
CLIMATE:
Warm Temperate, Sub Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
10 to 38°C / 50 to 100°F
SOIL TYPE:
Moist, well-draining soil
LOCATION:
Full Sun to Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 10 metres (35 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 8 metres (26 feet)
pH:
6.0-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Deciduous, Flowering Tree
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium-High
POLLINATION:
Bees Bisexual Flower
MATURITY:
2-3 years
GERMINATION RATES:
85-96%
GERMINATION TIME:
3-4 weeks, dependent on conditions.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
5-6
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes. Is classified as invasive in Samoa; Fiji; Cuba and Florida
EDIBLE:
Yes, flowers, seeds and leaves.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) for up to 2 years.
FACTS ABOUT BAUHINIA PURPUREA (Purple Orchid Tree)
In traditional medicine this plant has been used to treat many conditions such as coughs; fevers; wound care; and to help regulate thyroid function. Parts of the plant have also been shown to possess anti-inflammatory; analgesic; antibacterial; anti-diabetic; and anti-fungal qualities.
The flowers; seeds; leaves, fruit and even the gum of this species are edible. The flower buds: seeds and leaves can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable, while the flowers and leaves can also be used in curries.
