Palasha, Bastard Teak (Butea monosperma) Description of plant Butea is medium sized tree that grow in dry seasons and dry regions. This deciduous tree grows up to height of 15mts. This tree bears dark orange or scarlet colored flowers and is called flame of the forest. Bark of the tree is fibrous, crooked and tortuous and bluish grey or dark brown from outside. Bark of this tree show a reddish exudate. Leaves are trifoliate; petioles are long with small stipules.