White Orchid Tree - Bauhinia Variegata Alba Seeds
A medium-sized tree with abundant large fragrant white flowers with lemon-green markings that appear in winter-spring and intermittently in summer. The tree has a short trunk, spreads branches, and is marginally frost-hardy.
In tropical climates it is semi-evergreen, in cooler climates it is deciduous, flowering on leafless branches. The plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling. Prefers fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, requiring a warm sheltered position in full sun.
When grown in warm Temperate zones, this species can withstand short periods of temperatures as low as -5°c. In Britain, it is only likely to succeed outdoors in the very mildest parts of the country, and even then would probably require the protection of a south-facing wall. There are some cultivars, developed for their ornamental value.
Genus - Bauhinia
Species - Variegata
Variety - alba
Common name - White Orchid Tree
Other names - Bauhinia candida, White Mountain Ebony, Bauhinia variegata var. candida
Pre-Treatment - Not-required
Hardiness zones - 8 - 11
Height - 10'-20' / 3 - 6(10) m
Spread - 6'-10' / 1,80 - 3 m
Plant type - Tropical Tree
Vegetation type - Deciduous or semi-evergreen
Exposure - Full Sun, Partial Sun
Growth rate - Fast
Soil PH - Acidic, Neutral
Soil type - Light (sandy), medium (loamy), heavy (clay)
Water requirements - Average Water, moist
Landscape uses - Extraordinary large white orchid-like blossoms make this tropical tree one of the most beautiful available.
Leaf / Flower color - Green / White / Near White
Plant growth rate - Fast