Hong Kong Orchid Tree
Hong Kong orchid trees have beautiful and attention-grabbing purple flowers when in bloom.
Even when they’re not blooming, the cheery and unusually wing-shaped leaves make the trees visually appealing and attractive throughout the year.
For a tree from a subtropical climate, it performs remarkably well in heat and drought. Just make sure to keep it away from areas with freezing temperatures.
Botanical name: Bauhinia blakeana
Other names: Orchid tree
Hong Kong orchid tree for sale at the nursery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Appearance
Can grow to 40 feet tall and wide, but usually stays smaller than that in our region.
Light gray bark and slender trunks and branches.
Distinct leaves shaped like wings. They look like two ovals joined in the center. Thick and leathery to the touch. Medium to light green color.
Blooms bright purple flowers from winter to spring. Very showy.
Followed by long and flat seed pods containing black seeds.
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Landscaping Tips
Great candidate for adding bright color to the garden. Enjoy the beautiful, showy purple leaves in the winter and springtime.
Mostly evergreen, but will drop some leaves in the wintertime in zone 9. Will keep most of its leaves throughout the year in zone 10.
Tolerates heat and drought well, but best if not grown in full sun all day in our hot desert region. Plant near a building, fence, other tree, etc, so that it gets some shade and relief from the afternoon sun in the summertime.
Grows and establishes itself very quickly.
Keep young trees staked to help secure them from strong winds.
Takes to pruning well.
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Origin
Hong Kong orchid tree is from warm regions of southern China
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Care
Blooming Hong Kong orchid tree in the winter
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is somewhat fertile. Provide fertilizer for blooms in early spring.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 30 degrees for a short period.
Water: Apply occasional, deep watering to allow the roots to fully soak.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs area is ok.
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Problems
Pests: Hong Kong orchid trees may attract spider mites. To remove them, use horticultural oil for crawlers and insecticidal soap for mites of all stages. Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, weak branch growth, leaf drop
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin, leaf drop
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring, lack of flowers
Hong Kong Orchid Tree Propagation
Obtain a 6 inch cutting and plant in moist soil.
FAQ
How much does a Hong Kong Orchid Tree cost?
At our nursery, a Hong Kong orchid tree costs $95 for a 15-gallon container, $200 for a 25-gallon, $500 for a 36-inch box, and $1,250 for a 48-inch box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How quickly does a Hong Kong Orchid Tree grow?
Hong Kong orchid trees grow very quickly. Given optimal conditions, they can grow 3-5 feet a year.
Is Hong Kong Orchid Tree drought tolerant?
Yes, Hong Kong orchid trees are drought tolerant once mature. A more drought tolerant tree with bright flowers that do well in hot deserts include the desert willow tree and cascalote tree.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 40 feet x 40 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Purple |
| FLOWER SEASON | Winter to Spring |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Moderate |
| GROWTH RATE | Fast |
| HARDINESS | 30º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | As Needed |