Clitoria ternatea
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusClitoria
Zone10
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Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea, is a climbing perennial or subshrub in the Fabaceae family. Native to tropical equatorial Asia, it is known for its striking blue flowers and is often used in traditional medicine and as a natural food coloring. The plant thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Butterfly Pea
Deguelia Javanica
Derris Javanica
Lathyrus Spectabilis
Nauchea Bracteata
Phaseolus Clitorius
Pterocarpus Javanicus
Clitoria albiflora
Clitoria bracteata
Clitoria coelestris
Clitoria mearnsii
Clitoria philippensis
Clitoria spectabilis
Clitoria tanganicensis
Clitoria ternatea f. ternatea
Clitoria ternatea var. major
Clitoria ternatea var. pilosula
Clitoria ternatea var. ternatea
Clitoria ternatensium
Clitoria zanzibarensis
Nauchea ternatea
Ternatea indica
Ternatea ternatea
Ternatea vulgaris
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Butterfly pea plants require bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. They prefer moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil partially dries out, ensuring it does not become waterlogged. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
Clitoria ternatea prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil mix allows for good drainage to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot the butterfly pea plant when it outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Handle the roots gently to avoid damage.Propagation
Propagate Clitoria ternatea through seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until germination. For stem cuttings, take a healthy cutting and root it in water or soil during the growing season.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems and trim back excessive growth to keep the plant manageable.Toxicity
Clitoria ternatea is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, as with any plant, it is advisable to prevent pets and children from ingesting large quantities.Additional
Butterfly pea flowers are often used to make a vibrant blue tea, which changes color with the addition of acidic substances like lemon juice. The plant is also known for its nitrogen-fixing properties, which can improve soil fertility.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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