Butterfly Pea Flower - Blue Pea (Bunga Telang)

Also known as Asian Pigeonwings, Blue Vine, and Blue Butterfly Pea, and scientifically called Clitoria ternatea, the butterfly pea flower is a beautiful and versatile plant. While white varieties exist, the most common butterfly pea flowers have blue and purple hues. The blue variety is probably the most popular, but regardless of color, these flowers are easy to grow. In fact, they can be considered hardy herbs (HOW TO MAKE HERBED RICE) and, botanically, flowering vines.

They are also a pretty sight, providing natural mental health and mind therapy. After all, nature (THINGS TO DO IN KUALA KUBU BHARU) has long been said to be the best for mental health. Beyond their striking color therapy, butterfly pea flowers offer numerous health benefits and versatile uses.

Purple Butterfly Pea Flower

 

Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower

Butterfly Pea flower offers a range of health benefits thanks to its rich antioxidant content. It supports weight management, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes healthier hair and skin. Because of its natural properties, it is also commonly used in beauty products such as hair mists, toners, shampoos, and face masks.

 

This flower is generally safe to include in your diet, with few reported side effects. However, it’s best to consume it in moderation because it may affect people differently. Always be cautious and pay attention to how your body responds.

How to Grow Butterfly Pea Plants and Flowers
Whether you opt for white, blue, or purple butterfly pea flowers, the growing process is similar for all varieties. These plants are widely available online and at nurseries, with prices varying depending on size and maturity.

 

To grow from an existing plant, carefully transplant it and allow time for adjustment to its new environment before planting it in soil or a pot.

Urban gardening Butterfly Blue Pea plant growing on the ground and trailing on fences.

How to Grow Butterfly Pea in Pots

A medium-sized pot is suitable for starting butterfly pea plants, which grow as trailing vines. They require support to climb or trail, such as a trellis, stake, or a long metal rod if no other options are available or preferred.

 

While there is no need to repot immediately, transferring to a larger container may become necessary as the roots grow crowded or root-bound. Repotting ensures healthy growth and better development.

Growing Butterfly Pea from Seeds
Did you know that growing butterfly pea plants from seeds is very easy? All you need are a few seeds, and if you know someone growing them, they’ll likely share, since butterfly pea plants often produce plenty of seed pods that fall naturally to the ground.

 

Whether in soil or in a pot, these dried pods can develop into new plants. To grow from seeds, simply dig a small hole in the soil and place the seeds inside. That’s all needed to get started.

Best Soil Type for Growing Butterfly Pea Plant
Butterfly pea plants can grow in various soil types, but clay soils that harden easily require regular monitoring and care. The best soil is a well-mixed, loose soil that retains moisture without becoming compacted, making it ideal for urban or home gardening.

 

Watering Butterfly Pea Plants

Watering is essential to keep the soil at an optimal moisture level. Check the soil regularly to decide when to water. While butterfly pea plants are generally hardy and can tolerate occasional overwatering, especially in garden soil. It’s best to be cautious, particularly when growing in pots. 

Overwatering in pots can cause root issues, so ensure proper drainage and avoid keeping the soil soggy.

Pruning and Tidying Butterfly Pea Plants
One of the effective gardening practices for butterfly pea plants is pruning, which encourages more stems to grow and helps maintain a bushy, healthy plant. Removing dried or dead stems prevents clutter and allows healthy stems to thrive. Neglecting this can make the plant look untidy and less vibrant.

Does pea flower need sunlight?

Pea flowers love sunlight and need plenty of it to grow strong and bloom well. Make sure you plant them in a spot where they get at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. Without enough sun, the plants may become weak and might not produce any flowers at all.

 

How to Use Butterfly Pea Flower

The blue and purple butterfly pea flowers are the most used due to their vibrant natural color. The white variety is less common. Below are popular ways to use butterfly pea flowers.

 

Making Butterfly Pea Flower Drink

To prepare the drink, soak the flowers to release their color. Soaking in cold water takes longer, while hot water speeds up the process. Once the color is extracted, the liquid can be mixed with tea or sweetened with honey. The drink may be served at room temperature, chilled, or with ice. It is one of the choices as a summer drink or during hot weather to refresh and cool down.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower Rice
The blue pea flower extract can be used to cook rice. Pour the extract over washed rice, adjust the water accordingly, and cook it in a rice cooker. This simple method results in rice that is a vibrant blue with a subtle floral aroma.

 

Another well-known dish is Nasi Kerabu, which can be prepared plain or with herbs. It is typically served with a variety of side dishes, as a platter meal or wholesome meal.

Other Culinary Uses of Blue Pea Flower

Butterfly pea flower extract is also used as a natural coloring for pancakes, waffles, jellies, and cakes. In Malaysia, it features in ondeh-ondeh, glutinous rice balls filled with palm sugar. As well as in Pulut Tai Tai, a steamed glutinous rice cake colored with butterfly pea flower extract and served with kaya.