Although very stunning, Bauhinia variegata has been declared invasive in South Africa because its seeds spread very fast and the tree competes with indigenous species. In KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape it is classified as a 1b invasive species requiring compulsory control, it must be removed and destroyed. In the rest of the country, it is classified as a Category 3 Invasive species. One will require a permit to import, possess, grow, breed, move, sell, buy, or accept the tree as a gift.

Originating from China, this medium-sized tree is characterized by thick leaves deeply divided into two lobes and bright pink or white flowers with 5 petals. After flowering, dark brown pods are produced. These contain several seeds and when mature they twist into a helix dispersing seeds into the environment.

Gardeners in South Africa are encouraged to substitute the Orchid Bauhinia with indigenous species in the same family. These include Pride-of-De Kaap [B. galpinii] which bears masses of bright orange-red flowers in summer; there is also the Yellow bauhinia [B. tomentosa], which produces bell-shaped yellow flowers; the Kalahari white bauhinia [B. petersiana], with very crinkled white flowers; the Kei white bauhinia, [B. bowkeri] which is a rare endemic in the Transkei and Eastern Cape; and the Pink bauhinia with rose-pink flowers from northeastern Namibia.

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