Butterfly Pea

(Clitorea ternetea) Native to tropical / subtropical Asia, butterfly pea, a legume, boasts brilliant blue flowers that can be brewed into a soothing azure herbal tea, and it is also an incredible source of natural blue food dye. The quick growing vines of butterfly pea provide decorative coverings for arbors, lattice and fencing. Typically grown as annual, the showy flowers are adored by butterflies, birds and bees! Ideal germination temperature is 78-90 F. Lightly nick or scrape the seeds then soak overnight before planting 1 inch deep, 3 to 12 inches apart. Seeds generally germinate in two to three weeks. Avoid overwatering once plants are established. Butterfly pea is a frost sensitive plant; do not set out transplants until the soil has adequately warmed and all chance of frost has passed. This heat- and humidity-loving vine may not mature unprotected in cooler climates and it is essential for northern gardeners to start butterfly pea indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost to get a good harvest of blooms. Perennial in zones 10-11, it grows as an annual in cooler climates. Vines to 6 feet in full sun to partial shade.

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