The plant informally known as the “clit plant” is Clitoria ternatea, or Butterfly Pea Flower. This vibrant vining plant is celebrated for its striking blue blossoms and diverse applications. This article covers its botanical characteristics, cultivation, uses, propagation, and common challenges.
Understanding the Butterfly Pea Flower
Clitoria ternatea, a perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family (which includes peas and beans), is also known as Butterfly Pea, Asian Pigeonwing, Bluebellvine, and Blue Pea. Native to tropical Southeast Asia, this climbing vine reaches 10 to 15 feet. Its distinguishing feature is vibrant blue, pea-like flowers, about 2 inches in diameter, often with a light or white center. The genus name Clitoria derives from the Latin word “clitoris,” referencing the flower’s resemblance to human female anatomy.
Growing and Caring for Butterfly Pea
Light
Butterfly Pea requires 6 to 10 hours of full sun daily for optimal blooming and growth. While it tolerates partial shade, direct light is best. Afternoon shade can prevent scorching in hotter climates.
Soil
This plant adapts to various soil types but thrives in well-draining, fertile soil (pH 6.0-8.0). Incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure enhances fertility and drainage.
Watering
Butterfly Pea prefers consistent moisture, especially during initial growth. Once established, it tolerates some drought but benefits from regular watering during hot, dry periods. Water thoroughly, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry before rewatering to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Butterfly Pea prefers warm temperatures, ideally 70-100°F (21-38°C). It is sensitive to cold and does not tolerate frost, thriving as a perennial in USDA zones 9-11. In cooler zones, grow it as an annual or bring it indoors. High humidity (60-80%) is beneficial.
Fertilization
Butterfly Pea plants are not heavy feeders, partly due to their nitrogen-fixing capabilities as legumes. A balanced NPK fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) during the growing season supports flowering and plant health. A phosphorus-rich fertilizer can boost bloom production, especially after pruning.
Pruning
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prolific blooming. Deadheading spent flowers redirects energy to new blooms instead of seeds. Pruning also involves cutting back overgrown branches and shaping the plant to maintain size, promote air circulation, and reduce disease risk.
Uses and Benefits of Butterfly Pea
Culinary Uses
A notable culinary use of Clitoria ternatea is its natural blue dye. The vibrant flowers color foods and beverages like rice, desserts, and herbal teas. Butterfly Pea tea uniquely changes from blue to purple or pink when an acidic ingredient, such as lemon juice, is added.
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Butterfly Pea has been used in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurvedic practices. It is associated with purported benefits like memory enhancement, anti-inflammatory properties, and stress reduction. These are traditional uses, not medical advice; scientific research continues to explore these properties.
Ornamental Uses
The Butterfly Pea is a valued ornamental plant. Its striking blue flowers and vining habit make it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes. It can be trained to climb trellises, fences, or arbors, creating beautiful vertical displays. The plant’s ability to fix nitrogen in the soil also benefits soil health.
Harvesting and Propagating Butterfly Pea
Harvesting Flowers and Pods
Flowers can be harvested from early summer until fall. For culinary use or tea, pick flowers when fresh and fully open. If saving seeds, allow pods to mature on the vine until they turn brown and dry. The flattened pods contain several seeds, easily collected once dry.
Propagation
Butterfly Pea propagates from seeds or stem cuttings. For seeds, scarification (lightly nicking the hard seed coat) and soaking in warm water for 12-24 hours improve germination. Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in warm soil. Cuttings, 4-6 inches long from healthy stems, root in water or a well-draining potting mix within weeks.
Common Issues with Butterfly Pea
Pests
Common pests affecting Butterfly Pea include spider mites and aphids. Manage these by dislodging them with a strong water spray or using horticultural oils. Whiteflies and scale insects may also appear.
Diseases
Butterfly Pea is not highly susceptible to many diseases. However, bacterial soft rot, anthracnose, leaf spot, and black mold can occur, especially in overly wet or humid conditions. Good air circulation and avoiding overwatering help prevent fungal problems.
Growth Problems
Lack of flowering is often due to insufficient light or excess nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes leafy growth over blooms. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Stunted growth can also signal inadequate light or improper soil conditions.