Definition

Noun: 1. A common name for plants in the genus Schizanthus, characterized by their finely divided, fern-like leaves and showy, often variegated flowers that resemble butterflies in shape and color. 2. A common name for the shrub or small tree Bauhinia monandra, native to regions including Dutch Guiana (Suriname), noted for its clusters of pink flowers with purple streaks.

Usage Examples

• The butterfly flower is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add delicate, colorful blooms to their borders.
• In the greenhouse, we saw a stunning display of butterfly flowers (), their intricate petals looking like a swarm of insects.
• The butterfly flower () provides beautiful shade with its distinctive twin-lobed leaves.

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in horticulture, gardening, and botanical contexts. It is a descriptive common name, not a formal scientific term, so its specific referent depends on regional or contextual clues.

Variants and Related Words

• Poor Man's Orchid: Another common name for plants in the genus , highlighting their ornate, orchid-like appearance.
• Orchid Pansy: A name sometimes used for varieties.
• Bauhinia: The genus name for the second type of "butterfly flower," which includes many species commonly called orchid trees.

Synonyms

• Schizanthus (when referring to the first definition).
• Bauhinia (when referring to the second definition).

Notes on Different Meanings

• The word "butterfly flower" has two distinct botanical meanings. The first (plants of the genus ) typically refers to annual bedding plants. The second () refers to a tropical tree. Context usually indicates which plant is meant.

Noun

1. shrub or small tree of Dutch Guiana having clusters of pink flowers streaked with purple
2. any plant of the genus Schizanthus having finely divided leaves and showy variegated flowers