Anacacho Orchid Tree

Botanical specifications, native range classifications, and ecological benefits verified against official Texas botanical repositories.

Anacacho Orchid Tree (Bauhinia lunarioides) is an outstanding native Texas tree in the Fabaceae (Pea Family). Typically reaching 6 ft. in height with a spread of 6 ft., it is native across the Southern Texas Plains. Distinguished by dark foliage that is light green, it offers an exceptional visual and tactile texture. During spring, the plant produces delightfully fragrant, white flower clusters. Flowering gives way to ornamental legumes that ripen through summer and autumn. It plays a vital ecological role as a larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies, including Long-tailed Skipper. The species provides essential habitat and food, supporting Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and Nectar Insects. Thriving in dry, limestone, loam, sand, and well drained, Anacacho Orchid Tree demonstrates outstanding hardiness once established. It requires minimal supplemental water and adapts seamlessly to drought conditions. It features high deer resistance.

Larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies: Long-tailed Skipper. Verified online via Texas Entomology (Mike Quinn). Verified via Texas Entomology (Mike Quinn, texasento.net) and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (wildflower.org).