Water
Water deeply when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during cooler months.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage in the pot and soil mix.
Bauhinia rufescens, the Silver butterfly tree, is a small, ornamental tree native to Africa, known for its delicate white flowers and attractive foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during cooler months.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage in the pot and soil mix.
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation is typically done from seeds, which may require scarification or pre-soaking to aid germination. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood in late summer or autumn, but success rates can vary.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring, or when they become root-bound. Mature trees generally prefer to be slightly root-bound and may not require frequent repotting. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Silver Butterfly Tree (Bauhinia rufescens)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Bauhinia |
| Species | Bauhinia rufescens |
Similar in genus Bauhinia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data