Mountain Ebony
Bauhinia variegatafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 236F — Bauhinia variegata
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IOverview
Overview
Mountain Ebony, Bauhinia variegata, is a tree or shrub native to Myanmar and the western Himalayas, with a range extending into Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, and Laos. This plant thrives in moist to wet conditions, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. It requires full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 8-11, reaching heights of up to 12 meters. The leaves, which are lobed and resemble clover, are edible and can be prepared by boiling to enhance their palatability. Mountain Ebony is also valued for its dye, tannin, and lumber, and can serve as animal feed. However, it has weed potential in certain areas. This versatile plant is widely cultivated for its practical uses, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Mountain Ebony?
Mountain Ebony, Bauhinia variegata, is a tree or shrub native to Myanmar and the western Himalayas, with a range extending into Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, and Laos. This plant thrives in moist to wet conditions, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mountain Ebony, or Bauhinia variegata, thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soil, which can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 12 meters tall. This plant, which can be a tree or shrub, is native to Myanmar and the West Himalaya. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-drained and keep the plant moist. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. The leaves are edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
12.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mountain Ebony for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Mountain Ebony tree to observe its growth and beauty.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Mountain Ebony sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warming up, avoiding frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot and avoid direct midday sun for now.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly once a year with compost or organic matter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, using too much fertilizer, and not providing enough support for the tree as it grows.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Mountain Ebony (Bauhinia variegata) are edible and can be eaten fresh or cooked. They are often prepared by boiling before consumption to enhance their palatability.
Other uses:DyeAnimal feedTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 56 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 56 introducedDistribution across5 continents· 13 native· 56 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Portugal
Asia20 regions
native (9)BangladeshChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanThailandVietnam
introduced (11)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaIraqLaosNepalPakistanSri LankaThailandVietnam
Americas8 regions
introduced (8)BahamasBoliviaColombiaCubaDominican RepublicHaitiPuerto RicoVenezuela
Africa12 regions
introduced (12)ComorosEthiopiaGhanaKenyaMalawiMozambiqueNigeriaSierra LeoneTanzaniaUgandaZambiaZimbabwe
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)New Caledonia
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Panamá, West Himalaya
introduced:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, California, Caroline Is., East Aegean Is., East Himalaya, Florida, KwaZulu-Natal, Leeward Is., Malaya, Mexico Central, New Guinea, Northern Provinces, Panamá, Queensland, Society Is., Texas, Trinidad-Tobago, Venezuelan Antilles, Windward Is., Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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