Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Bauhinia purpurea
Purple Orchid Tree
Shrub
18 medium available right now.
About
This deciduous to semi-evergreen small tree or shrub typically reaches 4-10 metres in height, featuring distinctive bilobed, heart-shaped leaves that resemble butterfly wings. It produces showy, fragrant, orchid-like flowers, usually purple or pinkish-purple, which bloom over a long period. These are followed by long, flat brown seed pods, 15-30 cm in length.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil, flowering best on drier conditions once established. It makes an excellent specimen or shade tree, and can be used for erosion control or to attract pollinators. Space plants 2-3 metres apart to allow for their mature spread.
Growing notes
It is a fast-growing tree, capable of reaching 3-5 metres within its first two years. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, though it prefers regular watering when young. Be aware of its potential for abundant seedlings and falling litter, and its weak wood can be prone to breakage in strong winds.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: pfaf.org, worldagroforestry.org, wikipedia.org, worldplants.ca, goldennails.qa, growbilliontrees.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.