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Description
The Bauhinia Galpinii (Pride of the Cape) is a small evergreen tree or bush. As well as other Bauhinias the Red Orchid has characteristic simple leaves formed by the fusion of two leaflets; and large colorful orchid-like flowers.
With a multi-trunk tendency, the Bauhinia Galpinii (Pride of the Cape) is generally used as a large shrub of an average maximum height of 10 ft; although under some special conditions it can reach double that height.
It is native to southern Africa and its best-known common name, Pride of the Cape refers to the cape of good hope.
Flowering and Foliage
With scrambling habit, which means that although they are not climbers, they will grow long shoots that will drape; eventually, they can climb a structure if that’s the objective. Furthermore, leaves in the Bauhinia Galpinii (Pride of the Cape) are simple, alternate, blade, and broadly ovate. With a wider notch at the tip and two rounded lobes. They measure between ¾ to 3 ½ inches. In addition to the lush green foliage, the distinctive flowers which appear from autumn to spring; appear in auxiliary racemes. Each flower has 5 free shell-shaped petals 1 to 2 inches long. Red to orange in color, resembling an apricot hue and with the distinctive butterfly or orchid shape of the Bauhinia.
Landscape Applications
The Bauhinia Galpinii (Pride of the Cape) is an ideal ornamental tree. It has value as a specimen, or its a great informal colorful hedge. That will add a tropical vibe to a landscape project due to its vibrant colors; especially around water features. And it can also be trained as a trellis up a warm wall. Overall, Bauhinia is a great addition to your South Florida Garden!
Other Bauhinias that might interest you: Bauhinia X Blakeana (Hong Kong Orchid), Bauhina Tomentosa (St. Thomas Tree) and Bauhinia Candida (White Orchid)
Common Names:
Red Orchid, Red Bauhinia, Red Butterfly tree
