Seeds – Bauhinia macranthera

Chihuahuan Orchid Tree – A unique small tree originally collected by John Fairey in 2006 in San Isidro Canyon. At maturity, this semi-evergreen can grow up to 15 tall with a canopy up to 8 feet wide. In early and mid summer, the canopy becomes covered with large magenta pink orchid flowers that are beloved by butterflies and hummingbirds. The foliage is butterfly shaped and rounded, providing interesting texture and form to the landscape. In late summer through fall, large seed pods that grow up to 6-8 inches long hang pendulously from the branches, containing seeds that are simple to germinate and share with friends! Plant the mature plant in full sun and in well-draining soil. This tree is reliably drought tolerant but looks its best when irrigated during hot summer months.

Seed instructions:

– Nick the hard outer seed coat with sandpaper or nail clippers

– Soak nicked seeds in water for 12-24 hours

– Sow seeds 2″ apart to allow room for growing

– Transplant after second set of true leaves emerges