Anacacho Orchid Tree
Bauhinia lunarioides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bauhinia lunarioides (Anacacho Orchid Tree) is a native Texas tree that produces fragrant white orchid-like flowers from March through May. This drought-tolerant species attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
72"–144" H × 72"–144" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Anacacho Orchid Tree is a small native Texas tree that produces clusters of fragrant white to pale pink flowers in spring. This drought-tolerant tree has a rounded canopy and attractive heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in fall before dropping.
Growing Anacacho Orchid Tree
Grow Anacacho Orchid Tree in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 72 to 144 inches tall and spread 72 to 144 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Anacacho Orchid Tree is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Trees often require HOA/ARC approval even when allowed.
- Verify setbacks from sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and structures.
- Confirm mature height/canopy limits and sightline rules for corners.
Wildlife value
The fragrant spring blooms attract butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other nectar-feeding insects. This native tree provides excellent pollinator habitat during its extended bloom period from March through May.
Common questions
- When does Bauhinia lunarioides bloom?
- Bauhinia lunarioides blooms from March through May, producing clusters of fragrant white flowers that resemble orchids.
- What pollinators visit Anacacho Orchid Tree?
- The flowers attract butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other nectar-feeding insects with their abundant nectar and sweet fragrance.
- Where is Bauhinia lunarioides native?
- Bauhinia lunarioides is native to Texas, particularly the Edwards Plateau and South Texas regions where it grows naturally in limestone soils.
- How much water does Anacacho Orchid Tree need?
- This tree is very drought tolerant once established and requires minimal supplemental watering, making it excellent for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Is Anacacho Orchid Tree HOA-friendly?
- Anacacho Orchid Tree is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Anacacho Orchid Tree fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.