Most gardeners are familiar with the Purple Orchid Tree, this being the most commonly planted species of the Orchid Tree, however there are several varieties that can easily be grown here in the Bay Area.
The Hong Kong Orchid is the showiest with blooms shaped like some orchids. Colors range from maroon to orchid pink, often in the same blossom. This one is the least cold hardy but can be successfully grown here, blooming late fall to spring. This tree can reach 25 to 30 ft tall.
The Candida Orchid Tree is the same as the Purple Orchid Tree, but with white flowers.
The Red Bauhinia blooms are as spectacular as those of the bougainvillea. Blooming spring to fall, sprawling, and half climbing this one grows to about 10 ft. This smaller size makes it a splendid flowering bonsai for large pots.
Pride of De Kaap produces small red clusters of flowers blooming from March to September, but will also flower at times throughout the year. In its wild state this medium to large shrub behaves more as a climber, but can easily be trained into an attractive small tree making it a very versatile garden addition.
There are several other varieties that produce showy blooms ranging from 8 ft to 30 ft in height. These flowering plants are not fussy about soil as long as it's reasonably well drained. They are not usually bothered by deer. Most can be grown from seeds; soaking the seeds in warm water overnight will speed up the germination.
Profile
Type: Tropical Tree, loses leaves in spring after it blooms
Exposure: Full to partial sun.
Blooms: Late summer to early spring on and off
Care: Average watering, plant in well drained area.
