Clitoria is a genus of about 60 species of flowering plants in the family Leguminosae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
These plants range in shape and size, from small shrubs to large trees more than 10 meters (33 feet) tall. They are known for their uniquely shaped flowers that add interest and structure to any garden, whether on their own or as part of a mixed display. These beautiful appealing flowers are beloved by gardeners of all skill levels, and pollinators will love them, too!
Name meaning
The genus name comes from the Greek word “kleitoris”, which has been translated as “little hill”, in reference to the shape of the flower which resembles female genitalia. And if you look at the shape of it, you immediately know where the name comes from.
Clitoria symbolism
Clitoria symbolizes fertility, rebirth, resurrection and new beginnings.
Interesting facts about Clitoria
Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)
Clitoria ternatea is the most popular species of Clitoria, well known for its medicinal uses and food value, but also for its ornamental value.
The plant is commonly known as Butterfly Pea Flower, Blue Pea Flower, Asian Pigeonwings and Aparajita.
It is known as the Butterfly Pea Flower because it was previously classified in the pea family (Fabaceae).
Butterfly Pea Flower is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but is now widespread through much of the world.
This herbaceous twining vine produces compound leaves with 5 to 9 small leaflets, and bright showy flowers that looks like the vulva of female genitalia. The flowers are borne upside down and are often blue in color, but can also come in other shades such as purple and white. The corolla is composed of five petals that are of different sizes and shapes – one standard petal, two wing petals and two keel petals. The standard petal is biggest among the petals, followed by smaller wing petals that are similar in color, and keel petals that are hidden inside the wing petals.
The plant can grow up to about 5 m (16 ft) in length, twining on fences or nearby plants. It prefers well-drained and fertile soil with a pH value from 6.5 to 7.5, and requires full sun for best growth and development.
Incredible Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower and Its Various Uses
Butterfly Pea Flower has been used as traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases.
The plant is well known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, analgesic, anticonvulsant, diuretic, sedative, antistress and antidepressant properties.
It is rich in many nutrients essential for the proper functioning of our body, including its ability to improve brain health, skin health and overall wellness. It is said to be effective in promoting metabolism, eyesight, hair growth and weight loss. The plant is also known to treat stomach problems, menstrual problems, respiratory diseases, diabetes, hypertension and dementia.
Butterfly Pea Flower is one of the rare plants that contain cyclotides or small peptides that are believed to be useful in the treatment of tumors and cancers.
As previously mentioned, its overall health benefits are countless, from weight loss to cancer prevention, and its popularity is on the increase.
The plant is also used in food and beverages.
It has been used as a vegetable in cooking, or to color food and beverages. There are people who use it in cooking, but it is most often used as a tea or powder.
The Butterfly Pea Flower tea is a well known drink brewed from dried flowers of the Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea). In the world of teas, Butterfly Pea Flower tea is quite popular not only because of its numerous health benefits, but also due to its intense deep blue color and a pleasant, refreshing flavor. Also known as blue tea, it is a beautiful color-changing drink that you might like to try. Based on the acidity of a drink, it will change from deep blue to light purple right before your eyes! With its woody and earthy taste, Butterfly Pea Flower tea will help you feel relaxed and refreshed.
Due to its bright blue flowers, the plant has been traditionally used as a natural dye for centuries.
Butterfly Pea Flower is also popular as an ornamentalplant among lovers of interesting flowers.
It is well known that this plant has become more and more popular over recent years with many people who enjoy drinking tea regularly or who just enjoy beautiful flowers.
Clitoria Plant Data
Plant Type:
Climbers, Perennials, Shrubs, Trees
Color:
The flowers often come in shades of blue, purple and white, but are typically spotted in varying degrees of these colors.
Hardiness Zones:
5-11
Blooms in:
Spring, Autumn, Summer
Height:
These plants range in size, so there is something to suit all gardens! Some species, such Clitoria fairchildiana, can grow up to 15 m (50 ft) in height.
Soil needs:
They are well adapted to a variety of soil types. However, they prefer moist, rich and well-drained soil, with a pH value from 6.0 to 8.0.
