The butterfly pea flower is on the rise in the Western food and beverage industry due to its benefits. The gorgeous deep-blue-purple color makes the flower a different attraction in the culinary and herb world. A lot of the time, you have seen on social media about the beautiful matcha, lemonade, and coffee. And this is how the butterfly pea flower has become a sensation in many countries.
The butterfly pea flower has a Latin name called Clitoria ternatea, whose bloom represents the genital shape of women. The flower is generally easier to find in Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. However, this flower also thrives very well in other areas such as South America, China, India, and the East and West Indies. It typically grows around the riverbanks, throughout woodlands, and also in irrigation channels. However, this flower can also grow easily in a regular garden as long as the area mimics the natural habitat.
For centuries, a lot of Asian people have used the butterfly pea flower in many types of drinks and cuisines. It not only adds aesthetic, but also promotes health benefits. It is said that the flower can boost the immune system, balance the blood sugar, and even improve circulation.
In Thailand, the flower is often mixed with lemon and honey, bringing a calming effect which is also known as nam do anchane. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, people often mix it with rice to add beautiful color, and they also add lemongrass and lime mixed with butterfly pea flowers and honey to make a healthy tea. Another common mix you can try is using passion fruit, ginger, mint, and cinnamon.
The plant is also growing as an ornamental plant. This flower thrives very well around some natural environments such as open woodlands, bush areas, riverine vegetation, and also uncultivated places. As long as it mimics its natural habitat, the butterfly pea flower will grow very well.
This flower is said to be the hardy one, which enables it to grow in a wide range of soil types, such as loams, sands, and heavy clays. However, the flower prefers an alkaline soil type with a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 8.0.
For the best climate, the butterfly pea flower can grow very well in humid, tropical, and warm climates.
The shape of the butterfly pea flower is very unique, resembling the shape of human female genitals or butterflies. This flower has five petals, which are divided into three parts; one is the banner, and the other two become the wings, and the remaining two are located at the bottom.
Unlike other flowers that come in a huge variety of colors, the butterfly pea flower comes with fewer choices, such as blue and purple, as well as pink with the white gradation at the center. Interestingly, when the flower is used for drinks or cuisines, the color will blend with other ingredients. For some reason, adding certain ingredients, such as lime in the drink, can change the color of the water.
When it comes to fragrance, the butterfly pea flower almost has no fragrance, but when it is dried and turned into tea, the flower releases a subtle herby scent. It is not an aromatic flower, but its colors are the most interesting thing about this flower.
Speaking about the meaning, the butterfly pea flower has a strong relationship with some cultures. As it also influences how certain areas cook certain cuisines, the butterfly pea flower has its own meaning. It is often used as a metaphor that brings a huge impact. This is also associated with a transformation that is inseparable. That means growth is always possible everywhere. The addition of lemon inside the butterfly pea flower tea reflects the changes that every soul in this world has experienced.
Growing the butterfly pea flower is not difficult, as this flower can easily grow everywhere. It is one of the hardiest flowers that can adapt to many environments. However, a warmer environment will help the plant to thrive well, as this flower is naturally found in a tropical country like Indonesia. Therefore, ensure that you place the plant in a sunny area.
This butterfly pea flower can grow easily from seeds and plants, but seeds will be better to start with. You can begin by seeding the plant indoors for around 8-10 weeks before the final frost in your zone. If you are living in a warmer area, you can directly plant it outside. On the contrary, if you live in a colder place, spring is the best time. Just make sure you will place the plant in an area that can get direct sunlight for around 6-10 hours per day. Besides, well-drained soil is also preferable if you are planting this plant.
Caring for the plant is not something difficult. You just need to make sure the plant gets direct sunlight, but you shouldn't allow the flower to get excessive heat. Make sure the plant is also not in an area with too many shades.
If you are still in the seeding stage, you can do watering, but once it is well-established, the flower will need more dry soil. You also need to maintain the humidity between 70-100 degrees, which means it is suitable for the plant to grow in hardiness zones 9, 10, and 11 hardiness zones.
If you are looking for a professional florist who can help you create a stunning flower arrangement such as flower basket, Athaya Florist is the perfect place. We are here to help you create the best flower arrangement for any kind of occasion. From personal use to formal occasions, Athaya Florist will make sure that you can get the right choice. You can even personalize the flower by choosing your favorite designs, colors, wrappers, and the message you want to write on the gift card. Everything is adjustable here. Contact us for more information.
