Bauhinia Cocinea (Orchid Tree)

Bauhinia cocinea, also known as the Scarlet Bauhinia or Red Bauhinia, is a flowering tree or shrub in the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical regions of South and Central America, and is also widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in other parts of the world.

The Scarlet Bauhinia has large, showy flowers that are bright red in color and resemble butterflies or orchids in shape. The flowers bloom in clusters during the summer and fall, and are followed by long, thin seed pods. The leaves of the plant are green, lobed, and shaped like a butterfly or heart. They can grow up to 6 inches long and wide.

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some drought, but will bloom more abundantly if kept evenly moist. Scarlet Bauhinia can grow up to 20 feet tall if not pruned, but can also be kept as a smaller shrub through regular pruning.

Bauhinia cocinea is commonly used as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions, and is often planted in parks, gardens, and along streets. Its showy red flowers and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for landscaping. The tree is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and inflammation.