Hong Kong Orchid Tree Blossom

Hong Kong Orchid Tree (Bauhinia blakeana)

Location:  Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii

Flowering trees are a standard feature of gardens here in Hawaii.  A favorite ornamental tree in my area is the orchid tree.  The shape and coloring of the blossoms on these trees resemble true orchids, thus the name.

One of the most prized varieties is the Hong Kong Orchid Tree (Bauhinia blakeana), which produces very showy magenta blossoms like the one in this photo.  While other varieties of orchid trees bear seeds in long bean-shaped pods, the Hong Kong Orchid Tree is a hybrid that does not fruit.  It must be propagated by cuttings or air layering.