Bauhinia purpurea

The rapidly growing Orchid-Tree eventually reaches 35 meters in height and width and the slender trunks are surrounded by broad branches, bent, lush leaves on arched branches.The Orchid-Tree is festivaled in the fall with several beautiful and deliciously scented flowers five inches wide and narrow purple, rose and lavender petals, all arranged so that they closely resemble an orchid. These flowers appear on the trees from September to November and offer a stunning view of the autumn landscape, providing a vivid sprinkling of colour. Following the flowers are 12 inch long, slender, brown and flat seedpods that typically remain on the tree all winter long, then cause mess to be cleaned up. The impressive display of the flower makes orchid trees a favorite for specimen plantations.