Overview
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is a tropical shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a relatively rare plant that is native to Myanmar, Thailand, and Southern China. The plant is often grown as an ornamental in gardens and parks for its attractive flowers and foliage.
Appearance
The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has a woody stem and branches that are covered in a greyish-brown bark. The leaves are bipinnate, which means that they are divided into two leaflets. Each leaflet is shaped like a crescent moon and is about 10-15 cm long. The flowers are large and showy, and are typically pink in color. They have five petals, with the upper petal being larger and more prominently veined than the others. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the branches during the summer months. The fruits are long, flat pods that contain seeds.
Common Names
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is known by a variety of common names, depending on the region where it is grown. In Thailand, it is commonly called "Kangkudee". In China, it is known as "Luan Mu Bai Gui" or "Jin Kuai Hua". In English-speaking countries, it is sometimes referred to as "Butterfly Flower" or "Pink Orchid Tree".
Uses
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. has several uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, the roots and bark of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, fever, and coughs. The plant also contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is often grown as an ornamental for its attractive flowers and foliage. The wood of the plant is also used for making furniture and other decorative items.
Light Conditions
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers bright sunlight but can adapt to partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. It can tolerate high temperatures but not very low ones. The plant cannot withstand frost or extreme cold.
Soil Needs
The plant thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. prefer soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH between 5.5 -7.5. It can also grow in sandy or loamy soils. Proper soil moisture and good drainage are essential for healthy growth.
Cultivation of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv.
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is a tropical plant that can grow up to 5-6 meters tall and 3-4 meters wide. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings and prefers a well-draining, fertile soil. The best time to plant Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is during the rainy season.
Watering Needs of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv.
Proper watering is essential for the successful growth of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. It requires regular watering during the growing season and less frequent watering during the dormant season. The plant prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and under-watering can cause the plant to wilt.
Fertilization of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv.
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. requires regular fertilization to ensure optimal growth. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv.
Pruning is an essential aspect of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. cultivation. The plant produces new growth on old wood, so it is crucial to prune regularly to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased wood, and shape the plant to the desired size and form.
Propagation of Bauhinia cissoides Oliv.
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv., commonly known as the butterfly tree, is a beautiful flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. This tree is highly ornamental and is often propagated for decorative purposes by horticulturists and home gardeners alike. There are various methods of propagating Bauhinia cissoides Oliv., which include:
Seeds
One of the easiest and most common ways of propagating Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is by using seeds. The seeds are collected from the tree when they are matured. Once collected, the seeds are cleaned and sown in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright location, and only lightly watered until the seedlings emerge. It is also important to keep the soil moist during the germination period, which can take between two to four weeks.
Grafting
Another popular method of propagating Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is by grafting. This method involves taking a scion, i.e., a branch or stem from a mature plant, and grafting it onto a young rootstock of a closely related species. A specialized technique is utilized to ensure the grafting takes place successfully. Once the grafting is successful, the young plant's growth is encouraged, and the developed plant is then planted in a suitable location.
Cuttings
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Stem cuttings form roots and develop into new plants under appropriate environmental conditions. The best time to take cuttings is from a mature plant during the growing season. The cuttings can be planted directly into well-draining soil or can be dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting. The newly planted cuttings should be kept in warm, humid conditions and watered regularly until roots develop, and new growth is visible.
Overall, Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. can be propagated through various methods, with each method having its advantages. Depending on the desired outcome, the recommended process varies from one to another and requires specific environmental conditions for optimal success.
Disease Management
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is a type of tree that can be affected by several diseases. Here are some common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes dark spots on the leaves and can spread to the entire plant. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and apply a fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This disease affects the stems, leaves, and flowers of the tree. It causes brown to black spots on the leaves and stems, and can also cause the flowers to turn brown and die. Prune off the affected parts and apply a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a soil-borne disease that can cause the roots to rot. This disease is caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, make sure to maintain proper soil moisture and drainage.
Pest Management
Bauhinia cissoides Oliv. is also susceptible to pests. Here are some common pests that can affect the plant:
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause extensive damage to the leaves of the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or apply an insecticide.
- Scale insects: Scale insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and can also secrete a sticky substance that can attract ants. To manage scale insects, remove them by hand or apply an insecticide.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the leaves with water or apply an insecticide.
It is important to monitor the plant for signs of disease or pests regularly. Proper sanitation and cultural practices such as good watering practices, fertilization, and pruning can also help prevent the incidence and spread of diseases and pests. Seek the advice of an agricultural extension specialist or a horticulturist for proper identification and management of diseases and pests.
