Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Bauhinia galpinii or Red Orchid Bush

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 galpinii, Bauhinia forficata, Bauhinia tomentosa, Bauhinia natalensis, Bauhinia augusti, Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia variegata, Bauhinia blakeana.

Common names: Red Bauhinia, Red Orchid Bush, Pride of De Kaap, African Plume. This species is native to eastern and southern Africa.

They are semi-climbing evergreen shrubs that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height and 5 meters (16.4 feet) in width. They have lobed leaves similar to cow's hooves typical of the genus Bauhinia. The showy and attractive flowers are orange-red in color. They bloom in summer.

These fast-growing plants are used as climbing plants to cover fences or walls and as isolated specimens in medium or large gardens since their size is widespread. They are also very suitable for understory.

Bauhinia galpinii can be grown in full sun, shaded or semi-shaded exposures, protected from the wind and in mild temperatures. Adult plants can withstand occasional light frosts.

They can grow in poor soil but prefer it to be well drained, light, and contain organic matter. Planting is done in early spring.

Watering should be moderate all year round (increase slightly in summer); they have good resistance to drought.

Fertilize with manure or compost in the fall.

Prune lightly in late winter to remove damaged branches and strengthen the plant.

They are resistant to pests but can suffer chlorosis if the soil is very limestone.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring; put the seeds in water the day before sowing.

Images of the shrub Bauhinia galpinii or Red Orchid Bush