Bauhinia species are grown for their orchid-like flowers with 5 irregular petals that can be white, pink, orange, red, magenta, or purple-blue. Leaves are alternate, simple, and often 2-lobed. Some species bear fragrant flowers.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsFrom damp to dry forest and grassland in tropical and subtropical regions.
CareWhere not hardy, grow in a warm greenhouse in soil-based potting mix in full light. Reduce water in winter. Elsewhere, grow as a specimen plant or in a border in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Water freely during drought.
PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
ProblemsSpider mites, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, fungal leaf spots, stem galls, and root rots occur.
