Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Bauhinia forficata or Brazilian orchid tree

The genus Bauhinia, family Fabaceae, comprises more than 200 species of trees and shrubs native to tropical regions on all continents. Some species are: Bauhinia forficata, Bauhinia tomentosa, Bauhinia natalensis, Bauhinia augusti, Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia variegata, Bauhinia galpinii, Bauhinia blakeana.

Common name: Brazilian orchid tree. This species is native to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Peru.

They are trees that reach more than 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. They have characteristic lobed leaves that look like cow's hooves. The flowers are white, large and similar to orchids.

Brazilian orchid tree is used in gardens as isolated specimens, in public parks and on streets and avenues. It has medicinal properties as a hypoglycemic and diuretic.

Bauhinia forficata needs full sun exposure and warm temperatures (they do not resist frost).

Brazilian orchid tree prefers drained, light and fertile soils.

Water all year round in a moderate way, waiting for the soil to dry out.

Bauhinia forficata tolerates light pruning after flowering to favor the next flowering.

Fertilize with compost in the fall.

Bauhinia forficata is quite resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to cold.

Brazilian orchid tree propagates by seeds (in spring), cuttings (late summer) or layering.

Images of the tree Bauhinia forficata or Brazilian orchid tree