Clitoria ternatea

Clitoria ternatea

Clitoria ternatea flower

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as Asian pigeonwings, bluebellvine, or butterfly pea, is a species of plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical equatorial Asia, but has been introduced to Africa, Australia, and the Americas.

Description

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Flower of Asian pigeonwings in West Bengal, India

Clitoria ternatea is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows as a vine or creeper. The plant is notable for its strikingly vivid blue flowers, which are often used as a natural food coloring. The flowers are solitary, with a distinctive shape that resembles a conch shell.

The leaves are pinnate, with 5 to 7 leaflets. The plant produces flat, oblong pods containing 6 to 10 seeds each.

Varieties

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White variety of Clitoria ternatea

There are several varieties of Clitoria ternatea, including a white-flowered form. The blue-flowered variety is the most common and is often used for ornamental purposes and in traditional medicine.

Reproduction

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Pollen grains of Clitoria ternatea

Clitoria ternatea reproduces through seeds. The flowers are pollinated by insects, and the plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which makes it beneficial for crop rotation and soil health.

Uses

Blue tea made from Clitoria ternatea

The flowers of Clitoria ternatea are used to make a caffeine-free herbal tea known as blue tea. The tea is popular in Southeast Asia and is known for its vibrant blue color, which changes to purple when lemon juice is added.

The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits, including improving memory, reducing stress, and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Culinary Uses

Khao tom with Clitoria ternatea flowers

In Thai cuisine, the flowers are used to color rice dishes such as khao tom. The flowers are also used in desserts and drinks for their color and mild flavor.

Cultivation

Double flower variety of Clitoria ternatea

Clitoria ternatea is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is also used in agroforestry systems.

Agricultural Benefits

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Beans of Clitoria ternatea

The plant is valued in agriculture for its ability to improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. It is often used as a cover crop and in intercropping systems to enhance soil health and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

Related pages

• Fabaceae
• Herbal tea
• Nitrogen fixation