Bauhinia acuminata

Bauhinia acuminate is also known as Dwarf Orchid Tree because its deliciously scented white flowers resemble some orchids. It is a wonderful tropical bush of the fabaceae family with remarkable foliage, floriferous, very ornamental, fairly easy to grow, but frost-sensitive. It is therefore cultivated in a pot to be overwintered in a conservatory where it can flower almost all year round. It thrives in a rich growing medium, kept slightly moist.

The Bauhinia acuminate is classified in the fabaceae family or more precisely in the caesalpiniaceae family, it is a cousin of the Caesalpinia gilliesii, the yellow bird of paradise. This species originates from tropical regions of Southeast Asia, its range extends from India to Malaysia and China. The dwarf orchid tree adopts the shape of a small tree with trunk and rounded crown or a bush, depending on how it is grown. Its growth is moderately fast and it reaches about 2.50m (8ft 2in) in height and 1.50m (4ft 11in) in width at maturity, when grown in a large pot. Its large leaves can reach 20cm (7.9in) in length. They are simple, a vivid green, and have two pointed lobes at their ends. Their shape somewhat resembles a cow's hoof print. In the evening and in very hot weather, the two lobes fold over themselves, like the wings of a butterfly. Flowering generally takes place in spring and summer, although it can be much more extended under certain conditions. It takes the form of white flowers, 8 to 10cm (3.1 to 3.9in) in diameter, grouped in short lateral clusters. Each flower consists of 5 oval petals that overlap, surrounding 10 long stamens. The heart of the flower is yellow and emits a very pleasant fragrance. After pollination, pods form that measure 8 to 14cm (3.1 to 5.5in) in length. When mature, they turn brown and open to release the seeds.

The Bauhinia acuminate is exclusively cultivated in pots in our climates, which allows it to be protected as soon as nighttime temperatures drop below 8°C (46.4 °F). It can be left in the conservatory all year round where the foliage will need occasional misting. It can be pruned in March to limit its growth. It requires heat but is accommodating when it comes to soil, as long as it is rich and well-drained. It is a very beautiful plant that can be showcased in an exotic-inspired setting, with tropical palms for example. Fans of exoticism can also grow baobabs, agaves, banana trees, Ravenala, or even the bird of paradise Strelitzia reginae to bring a beautiful tropical touch to the terrace or conservatory decor.