Bauhinia variegata - White-Purple Orchid Tree

This is a beautiful white variety of the more commonly seen Orchid Tree which has purple-varigated flowers. The flowers have four pure-white petals and one variegated deep purple. Orchid tree is closely related to peacock flower and to the tree many consider the world's most beautiful, the royal poinciana - and it shows! Orchid tree is staggeringly beautiful when in bloom - and it blooms for several months! Orchid tree grows 20-40 ft tall and 10-20 ft wide with a spreading crown of briefly deciduous leaves which are 4-6 in across and rounded with lobed ends and heart shaped bases. The leaves are shaped a little like a cow's hoof.