Caterpillar Tree, Orchid Tree, Camel's Foot Tree

bauhinia variegata

Also known as: ["Orchid Tree","Camel's Foot Tree","Mountain-ebony"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Bauhinia Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree known for its strikingly beautiful, orchid-like flowers with variegated colors, typically pink, purple, or white.

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 variegata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate to tropical regions, or as a container plant in cooler climates
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
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 sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for leaf burn.

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.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage before planting.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants for 4–6 weeks.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning to maintain shape; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.

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 new 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.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water 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 to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water straight to the roots, avoiding foliage.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with roots.

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

Yellow leaves in Bauhinia variegata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Bauhinia variegata can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to root damage.

Leaf spots on Bauhinia variegata are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can compromise leaf integrity, reduce photosynthesis, and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Bauhinia variegata if the soil is poorly drained or excessively moist, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Bauhinia variegata seeds or pods. The toxic compounds can cause digestive upset, though severe reactions are rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent access to seeds and pods. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Bauhinia variegata seeds and pods can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of lectins and other irritants. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets closely if ingestion occurs. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Bauhinia variegata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and pods are the primary toxic parts, containing lectins and other bioactive compounds that may disrupt digestive processes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and pods. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How tall does Bauhinia variegata grow?

A: It typically reaches 10–15 meters in height, though it can grow taller in optimal conditions.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Q: Is it suitable for cold climates?

A: It prefers warm climates and may not survive in regions with severe frost.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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