Bauhinia monandra Orchid (Pink Tree or Butterfly Flower)

5 seeds

How to Seed Bauhinia monandra (Orchid Tree / Pink Butterfly Flower)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • The best sowing period is from February to April or September to November, when the temperature is mild (around 20–30°C / 68–86°F).

   • Avoid sowing during the peak summer (May to August), as excessive heat and dry winds can affect germination.

   • In coastal areas, seeds may be started in early autumn when humidity and temperature are balanced.

2. Seed Preparation (Scarification):

   • Bauhinia seeds have a hard outer shell that must be softened before planting.

   • To improve germination:

     • Soak the seeds in warm water (40–50°C) for 12–24 hours, or

     • Lightly nick or sand the seed coat before soaking.

   • After soaking, the seeds will swell slightly — a sign they are ready for planting.

3. Sowing Depth:

   • Plant seeds 1–2 cm deep in moist, well-drained soil.

   • Cover lightly with fine soil and water gently to keep moist.

   • Do not bury the seeds too deep, as they need warmth and airflow for successful germination.

4. Soil Requirements:

   • Prefers fertile, sandy-loamy soil with good drainage.

   • Ideal Gulf mix: 40% sandy soil + 30% garden soil + 20% compost + 10% perlite.

   • Drainage is essential, as Bauhinia roots dislike waterlogging.

5. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 22–30°C (72–86°F).

   • Requires full sunlight for strong growth.

   • In very hot Gulf regions, provide light shade during the first few weeks after germination to protect seedlings.

6. Germination Time:

   • Seeds usually germinate in 10–20 days under warm and moist conditions.

   • Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy during this period.

7. Transplanting & Spacing:

   • When seedlings reach 15–20 cm tall, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the ground.

   • Space trees 3–5 meters apart for landscape planting.

   • Choose a sunny, wind-protected location.

8. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Watering: Water regularly during the seedling stage; once established, the tree becomes moderately drought-tolerant.

   • Fertilizing: Use a balanced organic or slow-release fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

   • Sunlight: Needs 6–8 hours of sunlight daily for best flowering.

   • Pruning: Lightly prune young trees to shape and remove weak or crossing branches.

   • Heat tolerance: Mature Bauhinia trees thrive in Gulf heat and bloom heavily from spring to late autumn.

   • The Pink Orchid Tree produces fragrant, butterfly-like flowers in shades of pink and white, ideal for gardens, driveways, and ornamental landscapes.