Bauhinia is an orchid tree that grows up to 10 m tall. It has large, Fragrant, purple blooms which resemble the flowers borne on orchids. The flowers are followed by seed pods. The Leaves are large and shaped like a butterfly. The leaves, Flowers, and young seedpods are cooked and eaten as vegetable. The Flower buds can also be pickled and used in curries. The seeds are fried and eaten.