St. Thomas tree (Bauhinia tomentosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for St. Thomas tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About St. Thomas tree
Bauhinia tomentosa, also known as the St. Thomas tree or yellow orchid tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to tropical Asia. It is distinguished by its unique bilobed leaves resembling a cloven hoofprint and its charming, bell-shaped yellow flowers that hang gracefully. It makes an excellent choice for tropical or subtropical gardens, either as a specimen plant or for informal hedging.
Native range
Africa and Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun for abundant flowering and prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. Watering should be regular during the dry season, allowing the topsoil to dry out between waterings, but reduced in winter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it is quite drought-tolerant once established. Protect from frost, as it is not cold-hardy.
How to save a dying St. Thomas tree
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or sudden leaf drop, no new shoots, rot at the base.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture, prune dead branches, protect from extreme cold if young.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, severe frosts, lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Good drainage and sun are key to its recovery.