SelecTree: Tree Detail
RED BAUHINIA
Bauhinia galpinii
Photo Locations: Huntington Botanical Gardens - San Marino, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA
General Notes
Utility friendly tree.
This large shrub, one of the most colorful Bauhinias, has a spreading to partly climbing habit. A fast-growing species, especially in warmer climates, it can withstand mild frosts and long dry spells. When trained, it will grow against a wall. The long flexible branches have been used for weaving baskets and for roofing. Bauhinia galpinii has no HPWRA (Hawaii Pacific Weed Risk Assessment) score.
Has fragrant Flower.
Native to South Africa.
Family: Fabaceae
Synonyms
Bauhinia punctata
Bauhinia galpinii var. galpinii
Additional Common Names
RED BAUHINIA, PRIDE OF DE KAAP
Tree Characteristics
Spreading with a Low Canopy.
Rounded or Umbrella Shape.
Has Partly Deciduous foliage.
Height: 10 - 15 feet.
Width: 5 - 15 feet.
Growth Rate: 36 Inches per Year.
Longevity 40 to 150 years.
Leaves Two-lobed, Light Green, No Change, Partly Deciduous.
Flowers Showy. Fragrant Red to Orange. Flowers in Spring or Fall. Has perfect flowers (male and female parts in each flower).
Brown Pod, Very Large (Over 3.00 inches), fruiting in Summer.
Bark Dark Gray or Light Gray, Scaly or Smooth.
Shading Capacity Rated as Moderate in Leaf.
Litter Issue is Dry Fruit.
Tree Site Conditions & Constraints
Sunset Zones 13, 15, 16, 18 - 24;H1, H2.
USDA Hardiness Zones 9 - 12.
Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade.
Moist Soil.
Drought tolerant.
Loam or Sand Texture.
Highly Acidic to Slightly Alkaline Soil pH.
Salinity Tolerance is Moderate Inland.
Seaside Tolerance is Not Suited.
Pests & Disease Information
Susceptible to Aphids.
Health, Safety & Environmental Concerns
Branch Strength Rated as Medium.
Root Damage Potential Rated as Low.
None Known Health Hazard.
Biogenic Emissions considered Moderate.
Attracts Birds.
Special Uses & Values
Container or Screen.
Espalier.
Cite this tree:
SelecTree. "Bauhinia galpinii Tree Record." 1995-2020. Apr 6, 2020.
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/bauhinia-galpinii >
This tree is not part of the SelecTree Nursery Connection. If you would like to see this tree listed, or know of a nursery that sells it, please contact us at ufei@calpoly.edu.