Bauhinia blakeana is the true Hong Kong Orchid, originally found growing in Pok Fu Lam on the western shore of Hong Kong Island, and believed to be a naturally occurring hybrid seedling cross between Bauhinia purpurea and Bauhinia variegata. It is one of the most beautiful flowering trees that we offer. It is very popular, but often difficult to find because it does not produce seed, is fussy, and difficult to establish. However, oddly, once it is well established, it requires little more than basic care and maintenance to thrive.
The features that make it so popular are the large, showy, bright purple, orchid-like flowers, its small stature, which makes it well-suited for small lots and urban landscapes, and its overall attractiveness. The flowers are gorgeous, but the paired leaves are also appealing and interesting. They are an unusual, rounded oval shape resembling butterfly wings. A resemblance that is further reinforced by their fascinating behavior of folding together at dusk, during stormy and cool weather, or most any time they are disturbed. Both leaves and flowers contrast nicely with the mottled, gray, woody stems and trunk, providing year-round texture and interest.
Hong Kong Orchids are easy to grow and maintain once they are well established, but getting them to the 'well established' state can be a challenge. When young, they are easily damaged and set back by exposure to temperatures outside of their comfort range. (50*F to 90*F). The best location for young trees is in cool morning light with dappled shade in the afternoon. Close monitoring of irrigation during establishment and adaptation is crucial. Lapses in watering are not easily forgiven. Becoming overall dry or wet can result in terminal damage to the young root system.
Hong Kong Orchids are semi-deciduous (meaning they shed some leaves, but not all and enter a semi-dormant resting phase in the winter in all climates. Leaves turning yellow and dropping in the fall are the normal, expected growth pattern and not a sign of pest or disease. Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil and avoiding extremes of dryness or over-saturation is crucial to the survival of young trees. Errors with watering, trees becoming chilled or overheated, and over-fertilization when trees are dormant are the primary reasons why young Hong Kong Orchids fail.
This tree is also a favorite of bonsai enthusiasts for miniaturizing or use as a large feature specimen for outdoor garden pots. However, both are challenging applications best suited for experienced growers.
Condition: This product is one (1) young, starter-sized plant intended for a gardener to grow to its mature size. You may expect a starter-size plant to be well-rooted, have a root zone of approximately 4 inches in diameter, be a minimum of about 6 to 8 inches tall, and have no blooms or buds on arrival. It may be shipped with or without a pot, as appropriate.
Plants are guaranteed to arrive in healthy, viable condition. This warranty is contingent upon the Seller receiving prompt notification of any issues or concerns with the plant\'s condition or appearance.
This notification must be received within 24 hours of delivery and include in-focus photos that clearly show the plant issue, shipping box, and address label. No other additional, extended, or long-term warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Hong Kong Orchid
- Bloom Form: Orchid shaped
- Mature Size: 10 to 12 feet
- Fragrance: Little
- Suggested Uses: Urban, Accent, Median, Bonsai, Potted
- House Plant Adapative: Yes but may require special accommodations
- Country of Origin: USA
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens tm
- Climate: Tropical
- Color: Purple
- Special Features: Showy bloom, no seed pod
- Species: Bauhinia hybrid
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 9, 10, 11
- Watering: Moderate
