Coral Pea
bauhinia kockiana
Also known as: ["Coral Orchid","Orange Bauhinia"]
Overview
A tropical vine with striking, orchid-like flowers in shades of orange and yellow, native to Southeast Asia.
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 kockiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, filtered light or sheltered outdoor space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed for shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
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 outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, avoiding foliage; saturate the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely before placing back in its spot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Bauhinia kockiana. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Bauhinia kockiana can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBauhinia kockiana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Bauhinia kockiana?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during hot, dry periods.
Q: Does Bauhinia kockiana require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Can Bauhinia kockiana be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in tropical or subtropical climates, though it may be grown indoors in bright, humid conditions with careful attention.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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