Monday, September 24, 2012

Orchid Tree


 

Orchid Tree
Bauhinia purpurea
(baw-HIN-ee-uh) (pur-PUR-ee-uh)
Synonyms: Butterfly Tree, Mountain Ebony, Geranium Tree

This tree seems to be a little controversial with its habits but I think everyone can agree that it is beautiful when flowering. This specimen is an especially dark colored variety and was growing in a pot. It was nice that it was only 8 feet tall as this tree can get up to 20 feet tall in nature. To me the specimens I have personally seen growing in Hawaii, California and Florida have been good looking trees that reminded me faintly of our own beloved native, Flowering Dogwood.


Orchid Tree is native to South China and Southeast Asia. There are several traditional medicinal uses for Bauhinia purpurea including as an anti-inflammatory medication.

Since this is a tropical type of post here is a Southern California sunset picture that has been hanging around.


No comments: