Butterfly Tree

(Bauhinia purpurea)

Butterfly Tree (Bauhinia purpurea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Bauhinia purpurea, commonly known as Butterfly Tree or Purple Bauhinia, is a semi-deciduous to deciduous tree or large shrub native to monsoon forests and open woodlands in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 17 feet (5.2 meters) and is noted for its distinctive twin-lobed, leathery leaves and large, showy, orchid-like purple flowers that bloom from September to November.

The Butterfly Tree is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage and the profusion of flowers that attract pollinators. It is used in tropical and subtropical landscapes for shade, as a specimen plant, or in mixed borders. Bauhinia purpurea prefers full sun to partial shade, moderate water, and well-drained soils. It is relatively easy to maintain but can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if overwatered. While it is a popular ornamental plant, it is considered potentially invasive outside its native range due to its prolific seed production and adaptability.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 25-30 feet
  • Width: 20-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Monsoon forests and open woodlands in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Orchidtree, Camel’s-Foot, Purple Bauhinia, Butterfly-Orchid-Tree, Hawaiian Orchid Tree, Butterfly-Tree, Skoenlapperorgideëboom, Pie De Cabra, Purpurbauhinia, 羊蹄甲

Scientific Names: , Bauhinia purpurea, Phanera purpurea, Bauhinia purpurea var. violacea, Bauhinia purpurea var. corneri, Bauhinia triandra, Bauhinia rosea, Bauhinia coromandeliana, Phanera kurzii, Bauhinia castrata

GBIF Accepted Name: Bauhinia purpurea L.