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Title: Bauhinia L.
Author: Connor, Kristina F
Source: In: Bonner, Franklin T.; Karrfalt, Robert P., eds. The Woody Plant Seed Manual. Agric. Handbook No. 727. Washington, DC. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 295-297.
Publication Series: Agricultural Handbook
Description: There are about 600 species of the bauhinia genus found in the tropical regions of the world. The genus includes trees, vines, and shrubs that are frequently planted for their showy flowers and ornamental foliage.Practical usage of the bark of orchidtree as an astringent in tanning and dyeing and of the leaves and flower buds as a vegetable has been reported. Seeds of some buahinia species have served as a human food source; a source of vitamin A; and as a possible pest control agent. Butterfly bauhinia is used for fuelwood on Puerto Rico and for fences on Jamaica, but it is considered a weed on Guam. Four species, all small evergreen or deciduous trees, have been planted in the continental United States. Hawaii has 13 species of introduced bauhinias, whereas Puerto Rico has at least 5.The large, 5-petaled orchid-like flowers of buahinia occur in racemes and range in color from white to deep purple and yellow. The fruits are flat, dark, dehiscent or indehiscent pods varying in length from 8-60 cms. Bauhinia grow easily from seeds and bloom within 3-4 years. Some species can be propagated from suckers but rarely from cuttings.
Keywords: Bauhinia, seed research
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Connor, Kristina F 2008. Bauhinia L. In: Bonner, Franklin T.; Karrfalt, Robert P., eds. The Woody Plant Seed Manual. Agric. Handbook No. 727. Washington, DC. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 295-297.
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