Pink bauhinia - Bauhinia monandra (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Pink bauhinia

Also known as: Orchid tree, Butterfly flower, Mariposa

Pink bauhinia (Bauhinia monandra) is a deciduous tree that will grow to 7 m tall. It blooms from spring to fall with clusters of pinkish white orchid-like flowers with streaks of magenta. Blossoms attract butterflies. The leaves are shaped like butterfly wings and it is sometimes referred to as a butterfly tree. Grows in full sun with low moisture.

Scientific classification

Species

Pink bauhinia (Bauhinia monandra)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Fall, Winter, Early spring, Mid spring

Harvest Time

10 cm to 13 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Pink, White, Red

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Pink bauhinia

Distribution of Pink bauhinia

Distribution Map

Pink bauhinia naturally occurs in the island of Madagascar. However, it's been introduced to various regions across tropical and subtropical zones in South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and some Pacific and Caribbean islands. While pink bauhinia has been embraced in some local ecosystems, in a select few Pacific and Caribbean areas its propensity to become invasive is noted, and its spread is sometimes thought to be potentially impactful on native ecosystems, particularly where its growth is unchecked.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, disturbed areas, roadsides, riparian systems

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Pink bauhinia is an ornamental, shrubby type tree native to Madagascar. This tree has naturalized in other tropical areas and is attractive to butterflies, sometimes causing it to be called butterfly tree. These trees can be grown from seed. Allow the seed to dry on the tree, then germinate as soon as possible because the seeds do not remain viable for long.

Name Story

Napoleon's plume: Pink bauhinia is also known as Bauhinia monandra. The Genus name, Bauhinia, was named after two brothers. Caspar Bauhin and Johann Bauhin were Swiss botanists wholived in the late 1500’s to the early 1600’s. The specific epithet, monandra, refers to the plants stamen because it only has one.

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Care Guide for Pink bauhinia

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from tropical environments, pink bauhinia prefers well-drained soil and high humidity. It's drought-tolerant once established, requiring watering every three weeks. As an outdoor plant, mulching helps retain moisture during hotter seasons.

Fertilize: Pink bauhinia thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers. Apply a slow-release granular formula every three months during growth, reducing frequency in dormancy. Use less for young plants to prevent root burn. Water thoroughly after fertilization to distribute nutrients and safeguard roots, adapting methods by growth stage and season.

Pruning: Pink bauhinia features vibrant pink flowers and bilobed leaves. Prune in early spring for health and growth; remove dead or crossed branches for airflow. This enhances aesthetics and encourages flowering.

Propagation: The propagation of pink bauhinia involves taking stem cuttings from a healthy plant, ensuring sufficient node length. Root in sterile, well-draining potting mix while maintaining humidity with plastic covers. Provide indirect light until roots and new growth develop, then transplant and acclimatize to outdoor conditions.

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Images of Pink bauhinia

Distribution of Pink bauhinia

Culture

Care Guide for Pink bauhinia

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