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Orchid Tree

Orchid Tree
Photo: Amanda McCall
Invasive Plant
Orchid Tree
Bauhinia monandra
 

This small, semi-deciduous tree grows 6-10m in height. A short trunk gives rise to vigorous spreading branches which hold large 2-lobed mid-green leaves. The tree is covered in beautiful purplish pink orchid like flowers during the warmer months. Long flattened seed pods follow and they can hang on the tree for several months.

 

HOW IT SPREADS

  • This tree produces an extremely large amount of seed which is moved by wind and water.
  • These seeds have a high rate of germination and should not be planted near sensitive natural areas.
 
 
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Other superior selections include;

  • Lysiphyllum hookeri - White Bauhinia
  • Stenocarpus sinuatus - Wheel Of Fire
  • Harpullia pendula - Tulipwood

Ask your local retailer for more superior selections

 

Alternative Plants

Hong Kong Orchid Tree
Photo: Norwood
Alternative Plant Hong Kong Orchid Tree
Bauhinia x blakeana
Trees and Shrubs
 

This wonderful Bauhinia is considered a sterile form. It forms a tall densely foliaged tree to 10m. The flowers are large, to 15cm, dark pink to red with purplish streaks and slightly fragrant. A truly spectacular tree when in full bloom autumn through to winter.

Panama Flame Tree
Photo: Steve Jackson
Alternative Plant Panama Flame Tree
Brownea macrophylla
Trees and Shrubs
 

Lovely tropical tree from central America growing to 10m in height. New foliage emerges light pink but soon hardens to deep glossy green. Spectacular scarlet red orange flowers emerge on the tips as well as the trunk in spring and summer with clusters up to 20cm wide.

Queen Crepe Myrtle
Photo: Neil Fisher
Alternative Plant Queen Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia speciosa
Trees and Shrubs
 

Taller growing than traditional crepe myrtle with long leathery leaves that turn copper red in Autumn and fall in winter. Absolutely spectacular in flower with large rose pink purple flowers 6-8cm across. This tree should be more widely grown.

 
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