The Butterfly Pea Plant, Clitoria ternatea, is a captivating flowering vine known for its striking blue, and sometimes purple or white, pea-shaped blossoms. Native to tropical Asia, this plant is popular for its ornamental appeal and the vibrant natural dye extracted from its flowers. Each blossom lasts a day, but the plant blooms profusely in warmer months, adding unique color to gardens.
Essential Growing Conditions
Light
Butterfly pea plants thrive with 6 to 10 hours of direct sun daily. While they tolerate partial shade, particularly in very hot climates, full sun promotes the most abundant flowering. Indoors, place by a south or west-facing window; supplemental grow lights ensure healthy growth and bloom.
Soil
Well-draining soil is fundamental for the butterfly pea plant. It adapts to various soil types but performs best in moderately fertile, sandy, or loamy compositions. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) is ideal. Good drainage prevents waterlogged conditions and root issues.
Watering
Consistent moisture is preferred, especially during establishment and dry periods. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry before rewatering thoroughly. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil causes root rot. Water at the base to prevent fungal issues.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, Clitoria ternatea prefers warm conditions. Optimal daytime temperatures range between 68°F and 85°F (20-30°C), ideally not dropping below 60°F (16°C). This plant also appreciates high humidity, typically between 60% and 80%. Misting foliage or using a pebble tray can increase humidity, especially indoors.
Ongoing Maintenance
Fertilizing
The butterfly pea plant is not a heavy feeder, partly due to its ability to fix nitrogen. Applying a balanced or general organic fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the active growing season promotes better flowering. A phosphorus-rich bloom booster can encourage more blooms after pruning. Over-fertilization, especially with too much nitrogen, may result in excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Regular pruning maintains shape, promotes bushier growth, and encourages more flowers. Trimming leggy vines stimulates new side shoots and more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers directs energy towards new blossoms, extending the flowering period. Pruning also improves air circulation, reducing disease risk.
Providing Support
As a vining plant, the butterfly pea requires a support structure to climb, managing its growth and showcasing its blooms. Trellises, stakes, fences, or strings can serve this purpose. Training vines upward keeps the plant tidy and ensures light reaches more foliage, contributing to overall plant health.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Butterfly pea plants are generally resilient, but common problems can occur. Pests like aphids and spider mites may infest, managed by spraying with water or using neem oil. Fungal infections, such as powdery mildew, can occur with poor air circulation or overhead watering. Ensuring good airflow and watering at the soil level prevents these issues. A lack of flowering, if not due to insufficient light, might indicate a nutrient deficiency, often nitrogen.
Harvesting and Uses
Butterfly pea flowers can be harvested daily when fully open, typically in the morning. Flowers are usually picked fresh, or allowed to shrivel on the vine before pinching off. These vibrant blue flowers are used to make herbal teas, which change color from blue to purple or pink with citrus. They also serve as a natural food coloring for culinary applications and can be used as a dye for natural fibers.
Winter Care
In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, butterfly pea plants are perennials; in cooler regions, they are annuals or brought indoors for winter. Move potted plants indoors when temperatures consistently drop below 60°F (16°C). During overwintering, growth slows; reduce watering and cease fertilizing. Adequate light and humidity indoors helps the plant survive until warmer weather returns. Alternatively, seeds can be collected from dried pods to sow new plants next spring.