Bauhinia mexicana
Mexican Orchid Tree
Description
Bauhinia is a large shrub or medium-sized tree, 10'-18' tall by 15'-25' wide. Leaves are semi-evergreen, depending on winter temperatures. White flowers bloom from middle of summer until frost, usually October or November. This Mexican native tolerates temperatures reliably down to 20 degrees F, and possibly colder. It is more tolerant of salt than most other Bauhinias.
Plant Type
Tree
Height Range
6-12', 12-25'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Summer, Fall
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Japanese, Spanish, Tropical, Water Garden
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers
Seasonal Interest
Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Foundation, Lawn, Parking Strip, Patio, Street Tree
Special Uses
Shade Tree
Attracts Wildlife
Butterflies
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.