Clitoria Ternatea (Gokarna, Blue Butterfly Pea)

Overview: The Blue Butterfly Pea, scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea and commonly referred to as Gokarna in India, is a stunning perennial vine celebrated for its vibrant blue flowers. This plant is not only ornamental but also valued for its medicinal properties and culinary uses. The striking flowers are often used to make herbal teas and natural food coloring.

Key Features:

• Vibrant blue, butterfly-shaped flowers
• Fast-growing, climbing vine
• Medicinal and culinary uses

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flowering. Can tolerate some light shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering slightly in winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil. A mix rich in organic matter, such as compost, works well. Adding sand or perlite can improve drainage.

Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in warm, humid climates. Prefers temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect from frost and cold drafts. Can be grown indoors in containers if outdoor temperatures are too low.

Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Regular fertilization promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or diseased branches as needed. Pruning also helps control the plant's size and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

Pests & Diseases: Generally resistant to pests but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Ensure good air circulation and proper watering to prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.

Size & Growth:

• Mature Height: 6-10 feet (can be controlled with pruning)
• Mature Spread: 3-6 feet
• Growth Rate: Fast

Usage: Ideal for growing on trellises, arbors, fences, or as a ground cover. The vibrant blue flowers are often used to make herbal teas, natural food coloring, and in traditional medicine for their antioxidant properties.

Additional Information:

Origin: Native to tropical Asia, widely cultivated in warm regions around the world.

Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans. The flowers are edible and often used in culinary applications.

Fun fact: The flowers of the Blue Butterfly Pea are known for their ability to change color when the pH is altered. For example, adding lemon juice to a tea made from the flowers turns the beverage from blue to purple due to the change in acidity.

Pot: The actual pot may vary from the product image.