How to Grow and Care for Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea)


Plant and Garden How to Grow and Care for Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea)

09 Nov 2024 18:00 567 reads

Butterfly Pea flower

Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea) is a beautiful tropical flowering plant native to Southeast Asia — especially Thailand, India, and nearby regions. It grows naturally in warm climates and is well known for its vibrant blue flowers, commonly used in herbal drinks, natural dyes, and traditional medicine.

Butterfly Pea Clitoria ternatea

Scientific Classification


Scientific Name: Clitoria ternatea
Family: Fabaceae (the legume or pea family)
Common Names: Butterfly Pea, Blue Pea, or Asian Pigeonwings

Butterfly Pea scientific info

How to Grow and Care for Butterfly Pea


  • Sunlight: Butterfly Pea loves full sun. Choose a spot that gets direct sunlight throughout the day.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soil. It can adapt to various soil types but thrives best in rich soil.
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during hot seasons.
  • Fertilizer: Add compost or organic manure during planting and again as the plant grows.
  • Support: Provide a trellis or pole for the vine to climb if planted in pots or gardens.
Butterfly Pea vine care

Benefits and Uses


  • Rich in Antioxidants: Contains anthocyanins that promote eye health, enhance blood circulation, and protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Boosts Memory and Brain Function: Natural compounds in Butterfly Pea help stimulate the nervous system and reduce stress.
  • Hair Care: Butterfly Pea flower extract is used to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair roots, and promote dark, healthy hair.
  • Food and Beverages: Commonly used to make blue herbal tea or as a natural coloring for Thai desserts and drinks. The flower changes color when mixed with lemon juice!

Easy to grow and full of benefits, Butterfly Pea is both a decorative and practical plant — bringing color, health, and nature’s beauty right to your garden.


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