Bauhinia purpurea, also known as purple bauhinia, is a small to medium-sized tree species in the family Fabaceae, native to southern China and Southeast Asia. It is a deciduous tree that can reach a height of 5-12 meters, with a rounded crown and spreading branches.

The leaves of Bauhinia purpurea are unique and easily recognizable, with a distinctive heart-shaped appearance, divided into two lobes at the base, giving the appearance of a butterfly. The leaves are medium green, glossy, and about 10-20 cm in length and width.

The tree produces stunning, fragrant, purple or pinkish-purple flowers that are about 10-15 cm in diameter and arranged in loose clusters. The flowers have five petals and a prominent staminal column that extends beyond the petals. They bloom throughout the year, but the peak blooming season is from late winter to early spring.

The fruit of Bauhinia purpurea is a long, narrow, flat pod that is about 15-30 cm in length and contains several seeds.

Bauhinia purpurea is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks, due to its beautiful, showy flowers and attractive foliage. It is also used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, and its bark and leaves have been found to contain compounds with potential medicinal properties. Additionally, the wood of the tree is used for fuel and charcoal production, and the tree is also planted for reforestation and erosion control purposes..