Why orchid is the national flower of Hong Kong?
The flower of the Bauhinia blakeana orchid tree, named after a former governor of Hong Kong, was chosen as the colony’s emblem more than 50 years ago. Since 1997 the flower appears on Hong Kong’s coat of arms, its flag and its coins. Beauty and shade are not all this tree offers.
What Bauhinia means?
The red flag represents the motherland and the bauhinia represents Hong Kong. The design implies that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China and prospers in the embrace of the motherland.
What are Hong Kong roses?
Shimmering with a unique beauty all their own, these two-toned roses have a pure white base that blooms into full color at the tips.
What does a Hong Kong orchid tree look like?
The lovely Hong Kong orchid tree produces color from winter through spring, with breathtaking reddish-purple flowers as large as 6 inches across. When many other plants aren’t in bloom, one of these magnificent purple-flowering trees can light up an entire landscape. The blossoms usually appear January through May.
Are Hong Kong orchid tree roots invasive?
Although it is often labeled invasive, this is the kind of plant you don’t mind being invaded by – on account of its superficial roots. Let it grow around any kind of tree or in the rose garden; it hardly needs watering.
How tall do Hong Kong orchids get?
20 to 40 feet
How fast do Hong Kong orchids grow?
The orchid tree has a fast growth rate, which means it is capable of adding 24 inches or more to its height in a single growing season. Because it reaches a maximum height of 20 to 40 feet, it may reach full growth in as little as 10 years.
How do you get an orchid to bloom?
Give them reasonably well-drained soil in a moderate climate and orchid trees will typically grow quickly and thrive. They prefer to grow in sheltered areas to reduce cold and windchill and offer a show of open-throated blooms in return for modest care.
How long does it take for an orchid tree to bloom?
Wonderful show of light pink to orchid purple, broad-petaled, 2- to 3 inches-wide flowers, usually blooming January to April. Light green, broad-lobed leaves generally drop in mid-winter.
Do orchids like full sun?
Information On Orchid Tree Culture Their many trunked forms make them ideal as specimen plants or container grown patio trees. They are attractive to butterflies and honeybees, but are deer resistant. Growing orchid trees thrive in full sun and do well in bright shade.
How much sun does an orchid tree need?
To achieve blooms, it requires 5 to 6 hours of light per day. Move it outside in the summer, and water copiously.
When should I trim my orchid tree?
Prune the orchid tree in late spring or summer, after the orchid tree finishes blooming. The tree may briefly drop its leaves after blooming, making the structure of the tree and branches visible. Prune before the new leaves bud out.
What does a orchid tree look like?
The orchid tree grows at a fast rate up to 20 to 40 feet in height, has light gray fairly smooth bark and develops an attractive umbrella-shaped canopy filled with twin-lobed, butterfly-shaped, gray-green leaves. Although it likes regular watering, it should not be overwatered.
How do you prune an orchid in Hong Kong?
Beginning in the second year, the Hong Kong orchid tree should be pruned in late winter, after the tree has finished flowering for the season. Prune off any weak and spindly branches, any branches that cross over and rub against other branches, and any low-lying branches.
Is Miracle Grow good for orchids?
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Orchid Food is a great way to nurture orchids and other acid-loving plants. It gives plants a deep, rich leaf color, beautiful blooms, and strong roots. Apply it every 2 weeks during active growth periods and every 4 weeks during rest periods.
Are used coffee grounds good for orchids?
In order to keep your hard to grow orchids thriving, they will need to be fed properly. Orchids require very low amounts of fertilizer when they are actively growing leaves and roots. Coffee grounds are an excellent fertilizer, especially for orchids and African violets.
What time of year do you feed orchids?
As a general rule feed with a liquid orchid fertiliser every third watering during the growing season. Many orchids need a rest period, usually during the winter months, when watering and feeding should be reduced.
What is the best fertilizer to use for orchids?
Orchids need to be fed regularly. Growers suggest using a “balanced” fertilizer such as 20-20-20 that includes all “necessary trace elements.” Regardless of the fertilizer formulation you choose to use, it should contain little or no urea.
Should orchids be watered from the top or bottom?
To master watering orchids, it is essential to water from above with fresh, pure water. For orchids with water storage, pseudobulbs, water when the potting mix is approaching dry. Otherwise, for orchids without water storage, without pseudobulbs, keep the potting mix barely damp.
Should I fertilize orchids in bloom?
While your orchid is resting, aim to fertilize it at least once a month and at most every other week. You can fertilize your orchid while it’s in bloom, but it’s really not necessary. Performing this step during the resting phase helps give your orchid extra nutrients for reblooming.