Purple Orchid Tree Seeds – 10 Bauhinia purpurea Flowering Ornamental Seeds
The Purple Orchid Tree (Bauhinia purpurea) is a stunning flowering ornamental known for its distinctive butterfly-shaped leaves and showy purple to lavender blooms. This tropical to subtropical tree adds a graceful, exotic touch to gardens and landscapes, producing fragrant flowers that attract pollinators. It is often grown as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or in large containers in cooler climates.
These seeds offer an opportunity to grow this beautiful tree from scratch, whether you are an experienced gardener or a curious beginner. With proper care, you can enjoy its vibrant blossoms and unique foliage for years to come.
Plant Features
- Produces striking purple to lavender flowers with a delicate orchid-like appearance
- Features distinctive two-lobed, butterfly-shaped leaves
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Can be grown as a small to medium-sized tree or large shrub
- Adds a tropical flair to temperate gardens when grown in containers
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Bauhinia purpurea
- Plant Type: Flowering tree
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
- Water Requirements: Moderate; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Growth Habit: Upright, spreading canopy
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
- Bloom Season: Late winter to early spring
- Mature Height: 20-35 feet
- Germination Requirements: Scarify seeds and soak in warm water before sowing
- Spacing: 15-20 feet apart
Planting & Care
To grow Purple Orchid Tree from seed, start by scarifying the seeds by nicking the hard outer coat with a file or sandpaper, then soak them in warm water for 24 hours. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of around 70-80°F. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden if conditions are suitable. Provide full sun to partial shade and water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. In cooler zones, grow in containers and move indoors during winter. Prune lightly to shape the tree and remove dead or damaged branches.
What's Included
This listing includes 10 Purple Orchid Tree seeds (Bauhinia purpurea).