Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Trees
Indigenous | Easy Care | Small tree / large shrub
The yellow bauhinia is a charming small tree with one of the longest flowering seasons of any indigenous plant. It produces drooping, bell-shaped, bright yellow flowers with a dark maroon to black centre almost continuously through the warmer months, and in mild climates like ours it can flower on and off for much of the year. The leaves are distinctive too, deeply two-lobed and shaped like butterfly wings.
It is fast-growing, evergreen in our frost-free climate, and stays compact enough for small gardens, containers and courtyard plantings. Its roots are non-invasive, so it is safe next to paving, pools and structures. It handles coastal conditions, moderate drought and light frost once established.
2 to 4 m tall with a spread of 2 to 3 m. Naturally multi-stemmed and bushy.
Fast. About 900 mm per year.
Small garden feature tree, hedge, screen, rockery, large container, courtyard or patio planting. Excellent for adding year-round colour.
Full sun for the best flowering. Tolerates semi-shade.
Well-drained soil with compost worked in. Not fussy about soil type but needs drainage.
Moderate. Water regularly while establishing, then it is reasonably water-wise. It handles dry spells but is not as drought-hardy as some indigenous trees. An occasional soak in extended dry weather keeps it flowering.
Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser to support flowering.
Light pruning after the main flowering flush keeps it tidy and encourages bushy growth. It responds well to shaping and makes a good informal hedge.
Ask about availability. We keep a changing range of trees and large shrubs. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right tree for your spot.
