Bauhinia tomentosa L., St. Thomas Tree

Found only in cultivation in Hong Kong. An erect shrub to 3m high with alternate, small, rounded heart shaped leaves with 2 lobes . Veins (7- 9) radiating from the base of the leaf. The margin is entire and the surfaces smooth and hairless. Size ranges from 5 - 7cm in diameter, petiole to 2 cm long.

Flowering, from July to September.Corolla of 5 yellow petals, stamens 10. Ovary superior.

Fruit, dark pod to 10 - 15cm long, 1.5cm wide and thin, containing 3 to 11 seeds.