Bauhinia blakeana, commonly known as the Hong Kong Orchid Tree or the Hong Kong Orchid, is a striking flowering tree native to Hong Kong. Renowned for its large, showy, and orchid-like flowers, it has become an iconic symbol of the region. The flowers are typically a vibrant purplish-pink hue with five slightly ruffled petals, creating a visually stunning display against the tree’s dark green, heart-shaped leaves. Despite its name, Bauhinia blakeana is not actually an orchid but rather a member of the legume family Fabaceae.
This tree holds significant cultural and symbolic value in Hong Kong, where it was adopted as the emblem of the territory in 1965. Its distinctive flower features prominently in local art, including paintings, textiles, and ceramics. Additionally, Bauhinia blakeana is popular in horticulture worldwide for its ornamental beauty and adaptability to a range of climates. It thrives in subtropical and tropical regions, making it a favored choice for landscaping in parks, gardens, and urban spaces.