The leaves of this rare species are very unusual. They consist of 3 leaflets, with the large leaflet at the end having a distinctive shape reminiscent of a butterfly. The purple colour of the leaves makes this extra unique. The plant is native to tropical areas of Southeast Asia, especially in south-eastern China, Vietnam and Thailand. Meanwhile, the species has also managed to spread to India and Bangladesh, but is generally rare. The maximum size is about 120 cm and the leaves can reach 10 cm. At night, the leaves fold down, before raising again in the morning. The plant can bloom with small, white flowers followed by pods containing 4-5 small seeds. 

The species can be kept as a houseplant, where a light location without direct sunlight is optimal. In addition, make sure the soil is well-drained and water as soon as the soil has become dry. The plant is quite easy to care for. 

Sowing description: Remove the seeds from their sheaths and sow them a few mm deep in sowing soil without pretreatment. Keep soil constantly slightly moist and allow to germinate at 22-28grC. Germination usually after a few weeks, but can take longer. 

Family: Fabaceae
Scientific name: Christia vespertilionis
Common name: Red Butterfly Wing
Native to: Southeast Asia

Sowing time: Year-round
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 10 degrees Celsius