Bauhinia Tree

            Bauhinia Tree

●     Scientific Name: Bauhinia variegata

● Common Name - Bauhinia Tree

●     Family - Fabaceae / Leguminosae

● Uses  

1. Flower buds and bark used in Ayurveda to treat dysentery, ulcers, diarrhea, and goiter.

2. Kachnar flower buds are eaten as a vegetable or pickle in many parts of North India.

● Fun Facts 

1.The leaves are bilobed (two-lobed) and resemble a camel hoof or a heart shape, which inspired the name “Camel’s Foot Tree.” 

2. Bauhinia is sometimes called “Poor Man’s Orchid” because its flowers look like orchids but are easier to grow.

● Cultural Significance - 

1.In some regions, Kachnar flowers are offered during Holi and temple rituals.

2. The Bauhinia blakeana (a hybrid) is the national flower of Hong Kong and appears on its flag and coins.

● Ecological Role - 

1. Shade & Cooling: Provides moderate shade with wide canopy, making it a good urban landscaping trees.

2. Bird & Pollinator Support: Flowers attract bees butterflies, and birds, supporting pollination networks.

3. Soil Fertility: Being a legume, it fixes  nitrogen and improves soil quality. 

4. Carbon Sequestration: Moderate CO₂ absorption due to fast growth and leafy canopy..