Bauhinia variegata - Variegated Orchid Tree

Thats lovely.

That is quite special isn't it.

I have to agree with meanie that is very special looking flower..
I have to say just when i think you can't show anything better, you always find something just that bit better ..Fantastic Palmate, just fantastic ..:o))))))

u are soo right mushy....thats just .....WOW...

That is exquisite.....just beautiful....

Drc726, thanks! : > )

Meanie, Mushybanna, Sandra, Milky: Thanks!
This species isn't my favorite tree because it's pretty messy looking. My favorite is the Hong Kong Orchid tree (Bauhinia x blakeana) which has larger purple, mauve flowers also they're very fragrant. It's widely used here as a street tree and blooms in winter. I've posted several pics in the past.

Bauhinia variegata 'Candida' is blooming now also...it has large white flowers. There's lot of trees in my neighborhood. I'll post a pic soon.

If only our street trees looked so exotic...!

Rbtkew:

Most Bauhinia species and hybrids look very unattractive once they finish blooming. They go dormant for a month or so...then start to grow again.

Stunning

Sixpence:

Thanks!

Many of the Hong Kong Orchids (Bauhinia x blakeana) trees are still in full bloom. Now, many of the variegated Orchid trees are starting to bloom.

I think this is my favourite.

Sixpence:

Glad you liked it. Hong Kong Orchids tree is my favorite...because it has the largest flowers, which are very fragrant. Also, because it's a hybrid...it doesn't have all the long bean pods, which makes most species look messy after their blooming period.

Yes it seems to sit tight to the foliage and branch on this photo. I ve just seen the seeds to this on ebay I might buy if not too difficult to germinate as it says you can pot it, I got a rare yellow desert rose seeds of the same bloke, doubt if they will germinate but I shall see.

Actually, this tree has many thousands of flowers and the tips of the branches.

Desert Rose usually germinates easily, if the seeds and soil are kept very warm (from what I've read). I hope it actually blooms yellow flowers...as it's always a gamble with hybridized seeds.

That sounds wonderful.

Yes I have heard it is dicey growing the rose from seed.

Sixpence:

I know Milky has germinated seeds from the Desert Rose. She has a heated greenhouse, though. I've never tried growing Desert Rose from seed...because they're so commonly available for sale here, and relatively inexpensive (with the exception of large plants).

Yes would be the same here with plants, yes Maureen has a heated green house shhhh don't tell Ray here hubby hehe haha.