Overview
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to South East Asia, particularly in Thailand and Myanmar. It is known for its vibrant purple flowers and has various uses in traditional medicine.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Large Purple Mountain Ebony' or 'Big-flowered Bauhinia'. In Thailand, it is referred to as 'Phung Ngaew'.
Appearance
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. is a deciduous tree that can grow up to a height of 10-15 meters. Its leaves are divided into two lobes that resemble a butterfly's wings, which is a distinctive characteristic of Bauhinia species. The leaves are green in color with a shiny surface and grow up to 10 cm long and 12 cm wide. Its flowers are deep purple in color with a yellow center and are arranged in clusters. The tree blooms in the summer season and sheds its leaves during winter.
Uses
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. has several traditional uses in Southeast Asia. The bark of the tree is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to treat various ailments. The roots of the tree are also used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea and dysentery. The flowering tree is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental value. The wood of the tree is used for carving and making furniture.
Light Requirements
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. grows best in partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a range of light conditions, but full sun exposure may stress the plant during hot, dry weather.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures and does well in tropical and subtropical regions. The ideal temperature range for it to thrive is between 20-35°C
Soil Requirements
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. requires well-draining soil with a neutral pH of 6.5-7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefers fertile loamy soil. Adding organic matter such as compost or humus can improve soil quality and provide essential nutrients for growth.
Cultivation
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. prefers a warm and humid climate, and it can be grown in different soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. It is recommended to grow the plant in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter to enhance growth and development.
The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Seeds must be sown directly into the soil after soaking them in water for a few hours. Cuttings and grafts must be taken from healthy plants and planted in a fertile soil mixture to ensure their successful growth.
When growing Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. through seeds, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature between 20-25°C, and provide sufficient water and light to encourage germination. The plant will start to flower after 2-3 years of growth.
Watering needs
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. requires consistent watering to maintain its growth and development. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the hot season, the plant may require frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
It is advisable to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid water evaporation. Use a watering can or a garden hose to water the plant slowly and gently, ensuring that the water penetrates deep into the soil.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential for the proper growth and maintenance of Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant.
Additionally, supplementing the soil with organic matter such as compost, animal manure, or leaf mold can enhance the soil's fertility and promote healthy plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to control the size and shape of Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. and to remove any diseased or damaged branches. The best time to prune the plant is after the flowering season ends in mid-summer.
When pruning the plant, use sharp and sterile pruning scissors to avoid damaging the plant. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and reduce the total height of the plant by no more than one-third of its overall height.
Regular pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Propagation of Bauhinia macrantha Oliv.
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. is a beautiful, shrubby, and flowering plant, which can be propagated through various methods:
Seeds
The seeds are the primary method of propagation for Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. The seeds are collected from mature pods, which have turned brown. The seeds are then cleaned and soaked in water for a few hours to soften their outer coat. After this, the seeds are sown in trays filled with a seed starting mix, which is kept moist. The trays should be kept in a warm place that receives filtered sunlight. Within a few weeks, the seeds will start to germinate and form roots, and once the seedlings have grown a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from the tips of healthy stems, making sure each cutting has at least 3 nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with wet sand, keeping it moist. It will take a few weeks for the cutting to form roots, and then it can be transplanted to a permanent pot.
Air Layering
Another propagation method for Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. is air layering. Select a healthy stem and remove the leaves from the portion of the stem where the air layering will be done. Make a small cut in the stem just below a node, and then wrap a handful of damp sphagnum moss around the wound. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with rubber bands. After a few weeks, check the moss to see if roots have formed. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the moss and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining growing medium.
Disease and Pest Management of Bauhinia Macrantha Oliv.
Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. is a tropical plant that is relatively resistant against diseases and pests. However, there are some diseases and pests that might affect the plant. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes dark spots with yellow halos on leaves and stems. It can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant debris and avoid overhead irrigation. Applying copper-based fungicides every 2-3 weeks can also help.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes circular to irregular brown or black spots on leaves. It can lead to defoliation and reduced vigor. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid overhead irrigation, and improve air circulation around the plant. Applying copper-based fungicides every 2-3 weeks can also help.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause misshapen leaves and stunted growth by sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewing can also help control aphids.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing of leaves and a fine webbing over the plant. They can quickly reproduce and damage the plant. To manage spider mites, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increasing the humidity around the plant can also help control spider mites.
Scale Insects: These small, round insects can form a hard, protective covering over themselves and suck the sap out of the plant. Infested leaves may turn yellow or fall off. To manage scale insects, scrape them off the plant with a soft brush and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewing can also help control scale insects.
