The butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) is a captivating plant cherished for its strikingly vibrant blue blossoms. These unique flowers possess an intriguing property: their color transforms to purple or pink when exposed to acidic liquids, such as lemon juice. They are popular for herbal teas and a natural food coloring in various culinary applications. Beyond their functional uses, the plant’s delicate blooms also offer significant ornamental appeal.
Growing Butterfly Pea Flower Indoors
The butterfly pea flower can be grown successfully indoors, providing tropical beauty to your living space. Indoor cultivation offers advantages, especially for those residing in climates with cold winters. It protects the plant from unsuitable outdoor conditions, effectively extending its growing season year-round. Growing it indoors also provides continuous access to its flowers, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any room. This vining plant thrives with adequate space and support structures.
Key Indoor Care Requirements
Light
Butterfly pea plants require abundant bright, indirect light to flourish and produce many flowers indoors. Positioning the plant in a south-facing window, diffused by a sheer curtain, provides ideal conditions. During winter or in homes with limited natural light, supplemental grow lights may be necessary for sufficient illumination and healthy growth.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for indoor butterfly pea plants, as they prefer consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch or two of the potting mix feels dry. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is essential for indoor butterfly pea plants. A flowering plant blend or general potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand improves drainage and aeration. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0). Good soil structure supports robust root development and nutrient uptake.
Temperature and Humidity
Butterfly pea plants thrive in warm indoor environments, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, so place them away from drafts or vents. They also appreciate high humidity. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, room humidifier, or occasional misting.
Fertilization
During its active growing season (spring and summer), an indoor butterfly pea plant benefits from regular fertilization. Applying a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering. As autumn approaches and light levels decrease, reduce the frequency of fertilization. Cease fertilization entirely during dormant winter months to help the plant rest.
Tips for Successful Indoor Growth
Providing Support
Butterfly pea plants are vining and require support to climb and spread indoors. A small trellis or stakes allow the plant to twine upwards, promoting air circulation and preventing tangling. Alternatively, let it trail gracefully from a hanging basket. Proper support encourages a more organized and aesthetically pleasing display.
Pruning
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more prolific flowering. Pinch back growing tips just above a leaf node to promote branching over leggy growth. This also controls the plant’s size and shape for indoor spaces. Removing any yellowing, damaged, or dead foliage maintains plant health.
Managing Pests
Indoor butterfly pea plants may attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Inspect leaf undersides and stems regularly for early detection. Signs of pests include sticky residue, tiny webs, or visible insects. For mild infestations, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or apply insecticidal soap. Persistent issues may require neem oil, an organic pesticide.
Harvesting and Utilizing Flowers
Harvest butterfly pea flowers when fully open, ideally in the morning. Gently pluck individual flowers to minimize damage to developing buds. Regular harvesting encourages more flowers. Freshly picked flowers are ready for immediate use.
For later use, air-dry flowers. Spread them in a single layer on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight; they will dry within a few days. Once dried, these vibrant blue flowers are commonly used for herbal teas, known for their striking blue hue that shifts to purplish-pink with citrus. They also serve as a natural food dye for culinary creations like coloring rice or desserts, and as decorative garnishes.