Butterfly Pea Seeds, Blue Queen
(Clitoria ternatea). Edible blue flowered vine from Thailand. Gorgeous, huge, double blue blooms make a natural food dye and soothing tea to calm the nerves. This double-flowered type was found in Thailand, where the blooms are used to dye everything from teas to rice and desserts. A gorgeous ornamental edible flower, the vines are smothered in dazzling indigo petals. Our favorite kid-friendly drink; when you add a drop of lemon to the deep blue tea, the color instantly turns a bright pink, like magic! Natural Pink Lemonade, anyone? A fine variety.
- Perennial in zones 10-11, grows as an annual in cooler climates
- Sprouts in 7–21 days
- Days to maturity: 75–90 days
- Full sun
- Planting depth: 1 inch
- Plant spacing: 6 to 12 inches
- Height at maturity: 3–6 feet (as a climbing vine)
- Ideal temperature: 70°F to 90°F
- Frost hardy? No
Growing Tips
Blue Queen butterfly pea thrives in warm, humid climates with well-draining soil. It benefits from a trellis or support for climbing. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, promotes strong blooms. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. This variety is often grown as an annual in temperate zones, though it is a perennial in tropical climates.
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last spring frost. Or sow Blue Queen butterfly pea seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures consistently remain above 65°F. In warmer regions, it can be planted in early spring; in cooler climates, wait until late spring or early summer. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'
How to Sow and Plant
Soaking seeds overnight and nicking or splitting the tough outer seed coat may improve germination. Plant seeds 1 inch deep in fertile, well-drained soil. Space them 6 to 12 inches apart in a sunny location. Provide support early, as vines will quickly seek to climb. Water regularly to keep soil lightly moist until germination.
How to Grow
Provide a sturdy trellis or fence to support vigorous vining growth. Water moderately once established—Blue Queen is drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth and increased flowering. It does well in containers or directly in garden beds, and blooms more heavily with regular deadheading.
How to Save
- Let pods to fully mature and dry on the vine before harvesting
- Harvest when pods are brown and beginning to crack open
- Remove seeds from pods and discard any that are moldy or damaged
- Let seeds air-dry for a week in a shaded, well-ventilated space
- Store in a labeled paper envelope or glass jar in a cool, dark place
FAQ
Do Blue Queen butterfly pea flowers really change color in tea?
Yes, the vibrant blue petals contain anthocyanins that react to pH changes. When steeped, they produce a vivid blue tea that turns purple with lemon juice or other acids.
Can I grow Blue Queen butterfly pea indoors?
While it prefers outdoor sun, it can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Use a trellis or small obelisk to manage its vining habit and ensure adequate air circulation.
Is Blue Queen butterfly pea safe for pollinators and pets?
Yes, it is highly attractive to bees and butterflies. The flowers are edible and safe for most pets in small quantities, though you should always consult a vet if unsure.
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Butterfly Pea Seeds, Blue Queen
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