Piliostigma malabaricum is a small (sometimes ornamental) tree species in the family Fabaceae. It was previously placed in the genus Bauhinia, but names changed with reorganisation of the subfamily Cercidoideae and the tribe Bauhinieae.This Asian species has been called the "Purple Orchid Tree" (although not to be confused with Bauhinia purpurea or Bauhinia variegata) and names in Vietnamese are: chân trâu and móng bò tai voi. The Catalogue of Life lists the subspecies P. malabaricum acidum.
Malabar orchid tree is resistant to diseases and is generally not susceptible to them. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. The Malabar orchid tree is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive care experience.
How to keep Piliostigma Malabaricum.
Light
The Malabar orchid tree is native to open habitats, like sunny meadows and forest margins, which supply abundant light. It does best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to different sunlight levels.
Temperature
The Malabar orchid tree adapts well to temperature, tolerating high heat and wide temperature swings. In hot weather, care should be taken to water appropriately and provide adequate shade to avoid sunburn. It is, however, relatively sensitive to low temperatures. While it can endure some cold, overly cold conditions may cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing the Malabar orchid tree is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and repeat monthly until 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
- Piliostigma
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 7.92 m to 11.89 m
- Mature Spread
- 4.88 m to 7.92 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late winter, Spring
