The southwest corner of the CESL building is home to two Bauhinia variegata trees-- one white orchid and one purple orchid tree. Both trees are members of the same species, but they are different subspecies (candida for white and purpurea for purple). Native to Southern China, these semi-tropical trees grow 20-35 ft tall and are commonly used as ornamentals. Besides the showy flowers, they also have interesting leaves, which are about 4 inches long with a deep cleft. As a member of the Fabaceae family, the orchids also form long pods. Together, these two trees, and their impressive blooms, are worth seeing!
