Bauhinia acuminata - Dwarf orchid tree
Family Fabaceae

Description:

This attractive shrub from southeast Asia is one of approximately 200 species of Bauhinia. The genus ranges around the world, mostly in the southern hemisphere. The unusual leaf resembles a redbud (Cercis) leaf with a deep notch at the tip. This dwarf orchid tree is among the most cold-hardy of the genus. It grows six to eight feet tall. It is deciduous in winter. Large white, star-shaped flowers are held above the foliage from summer through fall. 

Location:

This plant can be seen at Alumni Square and Founders Plaza in the large planter east of Honors Hall.

Size:

A shrub that grows to about six to eight feet tall.

Care Instructions:

Light: full sun to part shade

Water: moderately drought tolerant when established

Soil: well-drained soil, wide pH tolerance, no special requirements

This shrub grows well in a well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. The white flowers look especially nice in front of a dark background. In north Florida, it may die to the ground in a particularly cold winter and re-emerge in spring. It is difficult to find in local nurseries.