Bauhinia racemosa Seeds | Bidi Leaf Tree
LATIN NAME: Bauhinia racemosa
COMMON NAME: Bidi Leaf Tree
Plant Profile
Bauhinia racemosa, commonly known as Bidi Leaf Tree, is a species with a long record in gardens. Put simply, this is a rewarding species for anyone willing to give it a suitable spot.
Science & Biotechnology
Botanists studying the Bauhinia group regularly include Bauhinia racemosa in comparative work, and the species also appears in horticultural trials aimed at gardeners and growers. Various plant parts also have documented traditional medicinal uses across Indian folk medicine, alongside use as livestock fodder in parts of its native range. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Bidi Leaf Tree for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Bidi leaf tree’s leaves support a substantial traditional Indian cottage industry as wrapping material for bidi cigarettes, representing an important, if health-controversial, source of rural livelihood across parts of India. Beyond this specific economic role, tree also provides fodder and shade within traditional agroforestry systems across its native range. Establishment is uncomplicated, and afterwards ordinary care suffices.
Orchid trees are beloved ornamentals, and in India the leaves and bark have Ayurvedic records for thyroid and blood sugar support, now under laboratory study. The flower buds are also eaten as a vegetable in parts of Asia.
Growing from Seed
Bidi Leaf Tree grows readily from seed. Nick or lightly sand hard seed coat and soak it in warm water overnight before sowing into a loose, well-drained mix. Bright light suits young tree well, and it typically establishes readily under warm, tropical to subtropical growing conditions. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Bidi Leaf Tree has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. In a sunny, freely drained position it needs little looking after.
Related Reading
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