(Bauhinia variegata)
WHEN TO HARVEST | ANY TIME
Orchid tree exhibits medicinal properties. Its root is carminative, flowers are laxative, and the bark, roots and flowers, when mixed with rice-water, are used in poultice form as a maturant. It is also a food plant. The leaves, flower buds, flowers, and young seedpods are cooked and eaten as vegetable. The flower buds can also be pickled and used in curries. Aside from the abovementioned uses of the plant, it also yields a gum. The bark is a source of tannins and fibre, and is used for dyeing. The fine wood is hard and durable and is used in carpentry and fuel.