Brazilian orchid tree
Bauhinia forficata
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A small tree. It grows 12 m tall. There are spines in the axils of the leaves. The leaves are 7-14 cm long by 13 cm wide. They are simple and alternate. The flowers are showy and have 5 petals. The flowers are 10 cm across and white. The fruit are 15 cm long by 2.5 cm wide. They are light brown and become twisted when dry.
Also as Caesalpinaceae.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows in rainforests.
Countries/locations it is found in
Argentina, Asia, Bolivia, Brazil (country/location of origin), Indonesia, Paraguay, Peru, SE Asia, Slovenia, South America
How it is used for food
The flower petals and fleshy and sweet and eaten or used as decorations on many dished and added to sweet, jams and jellies.
Edible parts
Tea, flowers
How it is grown
It can be grown by seeds, layering or grafting.
Its other names
Local names
Orhidejno drevo, Pata de vaca, Pohon bohinia anggrek brasil, Unha-de-vaca