Bauhinia Candida

Bauhinia candida (White orchid) is a small tree that reaches 30 feet in height. It has an irregular, vase-shaped crown of moderate density. Furthermore, the slender trunk portrays arching weak branches with distinctive Bauhiana genus bilobate leaves. The green leaves are alternate, simple, broad, and about 4 to 8 inches (20.32 cm) long. While the showy white to gray, fragrant, blooms are 3 to 4 inches (10.16 cm) wide. The blooms appear just before the leaves drop.

Moreover, Bauhinia’s flowers grow along brown seedpods. The 12 inch long seed pods contains several seeds, which persist on the tree for some months.  The flowers attract Hummingbirds and insects. These seeds are necessary for propagation purposes. A cool fact is that the leaves can be used as animal fodder. In addition, in South Asia, the flower buds are pickled and eaten. In cultivation, white orchid tolerates dry, well-drained soils.

Bauhinia candida (White orchid) is a valuable addition to any garden. It is free of serious pests and diseases. Although, the tree does need minor pruning to maintain a uniform shape. Nevertheless, the White Orchid is an outstanding showpiece tree with its lovely blooms and delicate “winglike” leaves.

It is recommended for the garden as a specimen tree, accent tree, or street tree. White orchid can be used as a shade tree. The orchid tree is also suitable for a large observatory or it can be grown in a large planter. Importantly, the trees do produce a moderate amount of litter.

Other names: Orchid tree, Phanera variegata, Bauhinia variegata candida