The Bauhinia genus, belonging to the family Leguminosae (subfamily Caesalpinioideae), is the largest group under the tribe Cercideae, with approximately 300 species. These species have a variety of morphological characteristics, such as crescent-shaped hilum, bilobed funiculus, bifoliate leaves, and zygomorphic flowers, and they grow as trees, shrubs, lianas, and herbs. Despite its importance, detailed studies on Bauhinia as a single issue are scarce, frequently eclipsed by classifications of its extremely polymorphic members. The genus, known by numerous names around the world—including “Orchid Tree” in English and “Kachnar” in Hindi—has significant ecological, nutritional, and therapeutic importance, as recorded in both traditional Ayurveda and modern studies. Bauhinia species are found in North America, the Asian subcontinent, and tropical climates worldwide. Bauhinia species are native to the Himalayan areas of India. Bauhinia species, which are native to India’s Himalayan areas, flourish in a variety of soil types, from clayey to sandy, and are resistant to waterlogging and moderate saline levels. The genus contains important species such as B. variegata, B. purpurea, and B. vahlii, each with distinct morphological and ecological characteristics. Advances in genomic profiling have revealed evolutionary pathways within Bauhinia, as well as links with allied genera like Cercis and different genomic markers. Tools and bioinformatics software such as MUSCLE, IQTree, and BUSCO have made thorough molecular analysis possible, revealing genetic diversity and phylogenetic links.

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