Bauhinia Blakeana: Facts, benefits, how to grow and care guide

Bauhinia blakeana is an evergreen tree that is found in various parts of the world. The tree belongs to Hong Kong and has been popular due to its beautiful pink flowers. The tree is also known as the Hong Kong orchid tree. This hybrid leguminous tree belongs to the genus Bauhinia. 

The tree is now cultivated in many countries around the world and planted for its ornamental nature. Additionally, it is used to make medicines for a variety of diseases. 

Source: Pinterest 

The Bauhinia blakeana tree rises to a height of about 15-20 feet. It can grow even higher when it has surpassed the age of maturity. The leaves in the tree are large and thick. The main attraction of the tree lies in its fragrant, orchid-like flowers. These flowers are coloured in a bright pink hue and usually bloom between November to March. 

 

Bauhinia blakeana: Key facts

Name	Bauhinia blakeana
Common name	Hong Kong orchid tree, Kachnar
Origin	Hong Kong
Type	Flowering tree
Indoor/Outdoor	Outdoor
Flowers	Bright pink with multiple petals
Height	15-20 feet
Soil	Moist and well-drained
Water	Moderate
Sunlight	Full sun

The Genus

 

Native Habitat

The Bauhinia Blakeana plant is found in the warm parts of California, Arizona, southern Florida and Texas.

Sun tolerance

They grow well in full sun and are also drought tolerant. The Bauhinia Blakeana plant flowers very well in dry soil.

Mature height

The Bauhinia Blakeana plant grows upto 20′ tall, but sometimes it can go upto 40’ tall too.

Leaves

The Bauhinia Blakeama has bi-lobed leaves which resembles butterfly wings.The leaves are light green in colour.

Crown shaft

This tree resembles an umbrella like form and has an irregular crown shaft.

Cold tolerance

While it loves the sun, it can tolerate light frosts and temperatures around -3 degree Celsius.

Self pruning characteristic

As mentioned above, it has an umbrella like irregular form and pruning is done to give shape to the tree.

Growth rate

The Bauhinia Blakeana plant is a very fast growing tree with 12 to 24 inches of growth noticeable every year.

Fruit

The Bauhinia Blakeana is sterile in nature and doesn’t have any fruits.

 

Bauhinia blakeana: How to grow?

• It can be grown from stem cuttings since it is fruitless and sterile.
• A section can be buried in the ground or scarred with a knife, wrapped in damp sphagnum moss, and enclosed in a plastic bag. Ten to fourteen days after planting, roots should begin to form.
• Avoid overwatering this tree to promote vigorous blooms. In order for the tree’s roots and branches to grow and bloom more vibrantly, the soil around its base should be allowed to dry between waterings.
• For trees to maintain their solid structure and uniform shape, it is necessary to prune their upper branches regularly.

 

Bauhinia blakeana: Care tips 

Caring for Bauhinia blakeana trees is a pretty easy task. In Hong Kong, they grow in the wild and don’t need any care at all. However, in other climates and countries, they can be grown with proper care. Many people around the world have successfully grown this plant in their homes.

Source: Pinterest 

To successfully grow Bauhinia blakeana, you need to plant them directly on the ground. Make sure there is ample space for the tree to grow and develop with age. The soil needs to be fertile and well drained. You can water them regularly and keep them in full sunlight for the best growth.

 

Bauhinia blakeana: Benefits

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Here are some of the top health benefits of Bauhinia blakeana that make it a valuable plant for humans:-

Antimicrobial properties 

The leaves of Bauhinia blakeana can inhibit bacterial growth. Their antimicrobial activity inhibits the growth of yeast infections in the body. Additionally, it can purge the body of bacteria that can cause many health complications. It can prevent the spread of E.coli and cures the body of bacterial infections.

Prevents kidney problems

Bauhinia blakeana has ethanolic extracts that are present in its stem. This extract can help lower blood urea and creatinine levels. This ensures the smooth functioning of the kidneys. It can clear the blood of toxins and expel them through the urinary system.

Prevents cell damage

The leaves of Bauhinia blakeana can have antioxidant properties, as suggested in medical studies. The presence of phytoconstituents can significantly reduce hyperlipidaemia states. The antioxidant abilities of the leaves can prevent cell damage and restore the vitality of the body.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Kachnar has anti-inflammatory properties that make it a great medicine for reducing swelling. It can provide relief to infected or injured areas. Additionally, it can cure problems like sore throat, arthritis, gum inflammation, and many more. The plant can also provide relief from mild to severe allergic reactions.

Lowers risk of diabetes

Kachnar or Bauhinia blakeana is found to reduce blood sugar levels. Several studies have shown that the plant is able to balance blood sugar levels. This allows it to lower the risk of diabetes. It can be administered to patients who suffer from high blood sugar levels as well. It helps in insulin production, which very few plants can actually do.

Improves thyroid levels

Hypothyroidism is a common problem, especially in women. Ayurveda believes that hypothyroidism is caused by the aggravation of three doshas, namely vata, pitta, kapha.  Additional factors like obesity and a weak digestive system can also affect thyroid levels. Kachnar or Bauhinia blakeana extracts help restore the three doshas and solve problems of hypothyroidism. 

Cures constipation and haemorrhoids

Kachnar is said to help the stomach produce more digestive juices. According to ancient Ayurveda, these juices help the consumed food to get digested faster and better. This, in turn, makes it easier to get rid of body waste through the excretory system. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help provide relief from haemorrhoids that can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. 

 

Bauhinia blakeana: Toxicity

The Hong Kong orchid tree is not poisonous to humans, dogs or cats.

 

FAQs

How tall does Bauhinia blakeana grow?

A mature Bauhinia blakeana can grow upto 20 feet in height. However, in rare cases, the tree can tower over 40 feet after living for a long time.

Is the Hong Kong orchid tree invasive?

Yes, the Hong Kong orchid tree or Bauhinia blakeana is considered to be invasive. Before planting it at home, make sure you have checked with your local authorities.

Is Bauhinia blakeana fragrant?

Yes, sometimes the Bauhinia blakeana flowers can emit a sweet scent. However, they may not have a very strong smell that spreads rapidly.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]