Bauhinia lunarioides is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae, native to Southwestern Texas in the United States and Northern Mexico. Common names include Texasplume, Anacacho orchid tree, and pata de vaca. It is a small deciduous tree growing to 4 m tall. The leaves are 2–5 cm long and broad, rounded, and bilobed at the base and apex. The flowers are small, white or (rarely) pink, with five petals. The fruit is a pod. Though limited in range in the wild, it has become increasingly available in nurseries.
The Chihuahuan orchid tree is highly disease-resistant and is typically not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this species is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be pruned after they finish flowering. The Chihuahuan orchid tree is well suited to anyone who has outdoor space, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand extensive gardening experience.
How to keep Bauhinia Lunarioides.
Light
The Chihuahuan orchid tree originates in open habitats, such as sunlit meadows and forest edges, which offer abundant light. It thrives in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to various sunlight conditions.
Temperature
The Chihuahuan orchid tree demonstrates good temperature adaptability, being able to withstand higher heat and considerable temperature swings. In hot weather, attention should be paid to watering and providing adequate shade to prevent sunburn. However, the Chihuahuan orchid tree is relatively sensitive to cold; while it can tolerate some chill, excessively low temperatures may cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
The timing is important when fertilizing the Chihuahuan orchid tree. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue once a month through early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Bauhinia
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 1.83 m to 3.66 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 3.96 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink
- Flower Size
- 7.62 cm to 11.43 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Fall
- Native Area
- Mexico
Other names.
