The blue flower that resembles a butterfly is likely the butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea). This vibrant blue flower has petals that look remarkably similar to the wings of a butterfly. In this article, we will discuss the identifying features of the butterfly pea, its growing conditions, uses, and symbolism. As a distinctive and visually striking flower, the butterfly pea has captured interest for its unique beauty. Read on to learn more about this tropical flower that has a shape mimicking its winged namesake.
Identifying Features of the Butterfly Pea
The most recognizable feature of the butterfly pea is its vivid blue petals shaped like butterfly wings. The butterfly pea is a climbing vine that can grow up to 2-3 meters tall and produces clusters of pale blue or purple flowers. Each flower has five petals that are rounded and overlap each other, creating a symmetrical shape reminiscent of a butterfly’s spread wings. The flowers have a fuzzy, velvety texture and grow on short, slim pedicels about 2-3cm long. The butterfly pea’s leaves are comprised of three rounded leaflets on each leaf stem. The plant is a perennial in tropical climates and may be grown as an annual in temperate regions. Overall, the butterfly pea is a slender, delicate vine that produces abundant decorative flowers.
Growing Conditions
The butterfly pea thrives in warm, humid environments and is native to Asia in places like the Philippines, Malaysia, and India. This tropical plant grows best in zones 10-12 and appreciates full sun exposure. It requires moist, well-draining soil and cannot tolerate frost. The butterfly pea is relatively easy to grow from seed and blooms year-round where winters are mild. It can be grown outdoors as a climbing vine on a trellis or indoors in a hanging basket. Proper care includes providing sun, watering when the soil becomes dry, fertilizing monthly, and providing support for the vines to climb. Pruning is recommended to encourage more flowering. With ideal conditions, this colorful tropical vine will continue producing lovely butterfly-shaped blooms.
Uses
Ornamental Uses
The butterfly pea is valued primarily for its ornamental qualities. Its vivid blue flowers add dramatic pops of color to gardens, window boxes, and indoor spaces. The vining habit makes it ideal to train up trellises, arbors, and pergolas. Butterfly peas also work well in hanging baskets where the dangling blue blooms can be admired up close. This tropical flower adds height and dimension to containers on patios and poolside. Its butterfly-shaped flowers attract attention and complement other brightly colored tropical plants and foliage.
Culinary Uses
Beyond ornamental appeal, the butterfly pea has some interesting culinary uses. The flowers can be steeped to make a vibrant blue tea that is low in caffeine. Butterfly pea tea has a subtle floral flavor and gorgeous indigo hue. The plant also has edible leaves, shoots, and seed pods that can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable in Southeast Asian cuisine. Butterfly pea flowers are even used as a natural blue food coloring to dye rice and pastries in shades of blue and purple.
Medicinal Uses
In traditional medicine, butterfly pea extracts have been used to treat a range of ailments. The leaves have bioactive compounds that demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties in studies. Butterfly pea extracts may help lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, improve memory, and have diuretic effects when consumed. More research is needed to substantiate these potential medicinal benefits.
Dye Properties
The vivid blue color of butterfly pea flowers is due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments. These natural dyes can be extracted to color fabric, yarn, and other textiles in shades of blue. In Southeast Asia, butterfly pea flowers are used to dye traditional batik fabrics. The flowers produce a brilliant, colorfast blue dye that has been used for centuries in textile arts and crafts. The blue dye may also change to purple under acidic conditions, allowing for two-toned dye effects.
Symbolism
With its delicate butterfly shape, this blue flower has inspired some symbolic associations:
- Freedom – Just as a butterfly transforms and becomes free of its cocoon, the butterfly pea can symbolize freedom after being confined.
- Joy – The vibrant hue induces happiness and reminds us to embrace joy.
- Imagination – The whimsical shape sparks imagination much like a butterfly’s flight.
- Transition – Butterflies represent transformation. The butterfly pea reminds us we can transform and adapt as well.
- Vision – Butterflies are believed to enhance visionary powers in some cultures. The butterfly pea represents clarity of vision and insight.
With its uplifting color and form, it’s easy to see why the butterfly pea flower conveys positive symbolic meaning in many cultures.
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the butterfly pea flower:
- It is known by many names including blue pea, butterfly pea, bluebellvine, and cordofan pea.
- Butterfly peas are believed to have originated in Asia and Australia.
- The plant belongs to the Fabaceae or legume family.
- Butterfly pea flowers last only a single day and fall off the vine by nighttime.
- The flower color changes from blue to reddish-purple in acidic conditions.
- Butterfly pea tea has a pH level between 5-6, giving it antioxidant properties.
- The flower is the national flower of Thailand where it is known as “dok anchan.”
- Butterfly pea extract is sometimes used as a litmus test due to color change with acidity.
- The plant has nectar guides that point pollinators into the flower’s center.
- Butterfly peas have been cultivated for centuries in tropical regions.
From its striking beauty to its versatility, the butterfly pea flower is an intriguing bloom. Let’s take a closer look at cultivating this appealing blue flower shaped like butterfly wings.
How to Grow Butterfly Peas
Growing vibrant butterfly peas is easy with proper care. Here’s a guide on how to cultivate it successfully:
Planting Zone
Butterfly peas require hot conditions between 70-85°F and do best in USDA zones 9-11. They perform well in humid, tropical environments. Provide temperatures above 60°F for optimal growth.
Sun Exposure
Butterfly peas need full sun to bloom prolifically. Select a site with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. More sun results in more flower production.
Soil
Butterfly peas thrive in moist, well-draining soil. Improve drainage in clay soils by mixing in compost. Soil pH between 5.5-7.0 is ideal. The soil should hold moisture but not get waterlogged.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Water 2-3 times per week or when the top several inches become dry. Provide extra water during hot, dry periods.
Fertilizer
Fertilize butterfly peas every 3-4 weeks during the growing season using a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer. This will encourage abundant flowering.
Pollination
Butterfly peas are self-pollinating but also attract bees. Hand pollination with a small brush results in improved fruit and seed production.
Pruning
Pinch back leggy growth and prune any damaged vines. Remove spent flowers to direct energy to new blooms. Pruning improves air circulation and promotes flowering.
Support
The vining plants need trellises, nets, fences or cages for support. A trellis or arbor suits the vining and climbing growth habit well. Set up supports at planting time.
Harvesting Seeds
Collect mature seed pods once they turn brown and dry. Break pods open to remove seeds, then store in an airtight container in a cool location. Seeds remain viable for 2-3 years.
Follow these tips for success growing butterfly peas in your garden. The gorgeous blue blooms will attract attention while attracting pollinators too.
Where to Buy Butterfly Pea Seeds and Plants
Want to add vibrant butterfly peas to your garden? Here are some recommended sources to buy seeds, plants or starts:
Online Stores
– Amazon – Carries butterfly pea seeds and young plants
– Etsy – Sells seeds and live plants from independent growers
– eBay – Auctions seeds from various sellers
Nurseries and Garden Centers
– Digster’s – Specializes in exotic tropical plants like the butterfly pea
– Glasshouse Works – Sells unique butterfly pea cultivars
– Logee’s – Offers potted butterfly pea plants by mail order
Specialty Seed Companies
– Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds – Carries several butterfly pea seed varieties
– Kitazawa Seed Company – Sells seeds sourced from Asia
– Territorial Seed Company – Offers conventional and organic seeds
Check local garden stores or ethnic grocers in your area too. Make sure to select coated seeds or scarified seeds that germinate readily. Then watch brilliant blue butterfly-shaped blooms emerge in your garden.
Caring for Butterfly Peas
Butterfly peas thrive with some simple care. Here are tips for looking after these lovely vines:
Watering
– Water thoroughly 2-3 times per week or when soil is partly dry
– Maintain constant soil moisture for best growth
– Avoid wetting foliage; target water at soil level
– Drought tolerant once established but flowers best with regular water
Fertilizing
– Feed every 3-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer
– Alternate with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer
– Top dress with compost or organic fertilizer in spring
– Fertilize more frequently in containers
Pruning
– Pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushiness
– Prune off spent flowers and seed pods
– Remove any damaged or diseased growth
– Cut back in fall or bring indoors before frost
– Prune annually to control size and maintain vigor
Overwintering
– Grow butterfly peas as annuals in zones 8 and below
– Move containers indoors before first frost
– Prune back before bringing inside
– Place in sunny spot with temperatures above 60°F
– Limit watering in winter to prevent rotting
With proper care, butterfly peas will bloom abundantly during the warm season. A bit of attention goes a long way with this beautiful tropical vine.
Companion Plants
Here are some great companion plants for butterfly peas:
Flowers
– Marigolds – Repel pests
– Zinnias – Attract pollinators
– Petunias – Complementary colors
– Verbena – Trailing habit
– Sunflowers – Provide support
Vegetables & Herbs
– Radishes – Grow quickly
– Bush beans – Fix nitrogen
– Carrots – Have low water needs
– Basil – Repels pests
– Dill – Attracts beneficial insects
Vines
– Hyacinth bean vine – Shared trellis
– Black-eyed Susan vine – Contrasting colors
– Cucumber vine – Similar water needs
– Cardinal climber – Complementary red
– Cypress vine – Delicate texture
Group butterfly peas with plants that have compatible growing preferences for optimal results. The vines will mingle beautifully with other sun-loving flowers, vegetables and trailing plants.
Container Growing
Butterfly peas are well suited to container gardening. Follow these tips:
Selecting a Container
Choose a pot at least 12-18 inches wide and deep. Make sure the container has drainage holes. Use a lightweight potting mix formulated for containers.
Placement
Position the container in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight is needed daily for blooms. Avoid shady spots.
Support
Add a trellis, plant cage, or pole for the vines to climb up. Set up support at time of planting or train vines up as they grow.
Watering
Check soil moisture frequently, watering when the top inch becomes dry. Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Pour water until it drains from the bottom.
Maintenance
Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly. Prune back wayward growth occasionally. Move pots indoors before first frost in cold climates.
With the right care, potted butterfly peas will bloom repeatedly on the patio, porch or balcony for gorgeous color.
Troubleshooting
If issues arise while growing butterfly peas, here are solutions to common problems:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Few or no flowers | Insufficient sunlight | Place plant in full sun |
| Poor growth | Lack of fertilizer | Fertilize every 3-4 weeks |
| Leaves yellowing | Overwatering | Allow soil to partially dry before watering |
| Leggy growth | Lack of pruning | Pinch back tips of vines |
| Wilting | Underwatering | Water thoroughly when soil is partly dry |
Catching issues early allows for easy corrections. With proper care, butterfly peas will thrive and produce their distinctive blooms.
Uses in Cooking and Baking
The butterfly pea flower has some unique culinary uses. Here are ways to use this edible bloom:
Butterfly Pea Tea
– Steep dried flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes
– Sweeten with honey or lemon if desired
– Vivid blue-purple color
– Floral, herbal flavor
Natural Food Dye
– Add crushed flowers to batter or frosting
– Use to dye cakes, cookies, or icing
– Vary acidity for different hues
– Blue dye turns purple when acidic
Infused Syrups
– Add fresh or dried flowers to simple syrup
– Infuse 3-5 days and strain
– Use in drinks, cocktails, desserts
– Flavor takes on a subtle floral note
Decorative Garnish
– Float flowers in drinks or on desserts
– Crystallize flowers using egg white and sugar
– Place freshly picked blooms on cupcakes or cakes
– Contrasts nicely with light colors
Experiment with the charming butterfly pea flower in refreshing teas, stunning baked goods, and elegant cocktails.
Warning About Potential Side Effects
While butterfly pea flowers are used in food and medicine, some potential side effects may occur:
– May interact with certain medications – consult your doctor before consuming
– Large doses may cause nausea or diarrhea
– Pregnant women should avoid due to lack of safety research
– May contribute to hypotension or low blood pressure
– Can act as a mild sedative, causing drowsiness
– Allergic reactions are possible in those with sensitivities
To avoid problems, consume edible butterfly pea tea, extracts or dye in moderation. Discontinue use if any concerning symptoms develop. Further research is still needed on the effects of regular ingestion. For safe use, consult your doctor and follow directions carefully.
Conclusion
The vivid blue butterfly pea flower makes a charming addition to tropical gardens with its wing-shaped petals. This heat-loving vine thrives with warm temperatures and ample sunlight. Beyond aesthetics, the adaptable butterfly pea has culinary and medicinal uses across Southeast Asia. While more research is still needed, the edible flower also holds therapeutic potential. With its beauty mimicking its name, the butterfly pea adapts well to containers and
