Common Name(s): Poor man's orchid, Mountain Ebony, butterfly tree, fall orchid tree, purple bauhinia Botanical Name: Bauhinia purpurea (syn. Phanera purpurea) Type: Tender Perennial Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 to 11 (20°F) Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade Water Requirements: Low Bloom Color(s): Purple to magenta Bloom Period: Fall to mid-spring Height: 15 to 30 feet Spacing: 15 to 20 feet Features: Showy blooms Precautions: None known Description: A quick-growing, evergreen, small tree or shrub with rounded wings that are divided like butterflies wings. Plants are native to south China and southeastern Asia and are successfully grown in tropical and subtropical climates around the world. The large striking blooms which closely resemble orchids are formed in clusters and comprised of four spoon-shaped petals spotted with red or purple markings and a fifth which is typically red or purple. Long, dark pointed seed pods add further late-season interest. Plants are easily propagated from seed and most often reach flowering size in just 1-2 seasons. May require a bit of pruning to maintain a more desirable shape. Uses/Culture: Shade tree, specimen planting. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for best performance; will tolerate some shade. Prune in fall. Germination Requirements: Germination occurs in 4-45 days under warm (75-85F), moist conditions. Scarify and soak seed prior to hasten germination. Use of a heat mat to maintain optimum temperatures may be beneficial.

• Seeds per packet: 10

Seeds per packet: 10