Ebony, Queensland bean, Queensland ebony
Bauhinia carronii
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A small tree. It grows 6 m high and spreads 3.5 m wide. The leaves are twice divided. The leaflets are leathery and 30 mm long. It is very similar to Bauhinia cunninghamii. The flowers are white and downy. They are 5 cm wide. They occur in clusters of 2 or 3. The fruit are narrow pods with large glossy seeds.
There are about 250-350 Bauhinia species. Most are in the tropics. Also as Caesalpinaceae.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought but damaged by frost. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The flowers produce a clear nectar which may be squeezed out or sucked up. The flowers are also steeped in water which is then drunk.
Edible parts
Nectar
How it is grown
It is grown from seed. The seed need to be treated with hot water.