Butterfly Tree
bauhinia monandra
Also known as: ["Pink Orchid Tree","Orchid Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its striking pink, orchid-like flowers that resemble butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Bauhinia |
| Botanical Name: | Bauhinia monandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor pot with bright light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate slightly sandy soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid heavy clay soils, top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost, avoid sudden temperature changes, maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can harm roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth indicates establishment after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage branching, and removal of dead/diseased wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to frost damage if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during cold spells; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with stems/leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest Bauhinia monandra seeds or pods. The effects are typically not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Bauhinia monandra seeds and pods can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The toxicity is not life-threatening but may require veterinary attention if symptoms persist.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBauhinia monandra contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does the Bauhinia monandra grow?
A: It typically grows to 15-25 feet tall.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for tropical climates?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for tropical and subtropical regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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