Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant

Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant (commonly known as Shankupushpam or Blue Butterfly Pea Plant) refers to the plant species Clitoria ternatea. It is a beautiful and versatile vine known for its striking blue flowers and significant medicinal, ornamental, and culinary uses. The plant is native to Southeast Asia but is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions.

Key Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Clitoria ternatea
• Common Names: Aparajita Shankupushpam | Blue Butterfly Pea Plant, Asian Pigeonwings
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)

Appearance of Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant:

• Flowers:
  • The flowers are vibrant blue with a yellow center, resembling the shape of a butterfly, hence the name “Butterfly Pea.”
  • In some varieties, the flowers can be white or purple, but the blue variety is the most common.
  • The flowers grow singly or in pairs along the vine and bloom throughout the year in warm climates.
• Leaves:
  • The leaves are compound, with 5-7 oval leaflets, green, and soft to the touch.
• Growth Habit:
  • It is a perennial climber that can grow up to 3-9 feet (1-3 meters) tall. With its twining stems, it climbs on fences, trellises, or other support structures.
  • The plant is fast-growing and thrives in warm, tropical environments.

Growing Conditions:

• Light:
  • Blue Butterfly Pea thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
• Soil:
  • It prefers well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter. However, it is adaptable and can grow in poor soils as long as the drainage is good.
• Watering:
  • Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. It is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.
• Temperature:
  • Being a tropical plant, it thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C). It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection during cold weather.
• Fertilization:
  • Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Care and Maintenance for Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant:

• Pruning:
  • Regular pruning helps keep the vine in check and encourages more blooms. Remove dead or damaged branches to promote new growth.
• Propagation:
  • The plant is easy to propagate from seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be sown directly in the soil or started indoors and transplanted after the last frost. Soaking seeds overnight before planting helps improve germination rates.
• Pests and Diseases:
  • Blue Butterfly Pea is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids or caterpillars. Regular inspection and treatment with neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage pests.

Uses of Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant:

• Culinary:
  • The vibrant blue flowers are used to make tea, commonly known as butterfly pea flower tea, which turns blue when steeped in water. Adding lemon juice changes the teas color to purple due to a reaction with the flowers natural pigments.
  • Butterfly pea flowers are also used as a natural food coloring in rice, drinks, desserts, and other culinary dishes.
• Medicinal:
  • In traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, Clitoria ternatea is used for its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • It is believed to improve memory, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
  • The plant is used to treat a range of conditions such as skin ailments, inflammation, and infections.
• Ornamental:
  • The stunning blue flowers make this plant a popular ornamental vine for gardens, trellises, and fences. It adds a pop of color and visual interest to any garden landscape.
• Cultural and Spiritual Uses:
  • In India and Southeast Asia, the plant is often considered sacred. It is sometimes used in religious ceremonies, especially in the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga.

Health Benefits of Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant:

• Rich in Antioxidants:
  • Butterfly pea flowers contain anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall health.
• Memory and Brain Health:
  • Aparajita is considered a nootropic in Ayurvedic medicine, meaning it is believed to enhance cognitive function, particularly memory and focus.
• Anti-Anxiety and Mood-Boosting:
  • Drinking tea made from Clitoria ternatea is said to have calming properties, making it a natural remedy for stress and anxiety.

Harvesting Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant:

• Flowers:
  • The flowers can be harvested when fully bloomed. They can be used fresh or dried for making tea or as a food coloring agent.
• Seeds:
  • The plant produces pods that contain seeds. Once the pods turn brown and dry, they can be harvested for propagation.

Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant Tea Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 5-6 fresh or dried butterfly pea flowers
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • Honey or sugar (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Place the flowers in a teapot or cup.
  2. Pour boiling water over the flowers and steep for 5-10 minutes until the water turns a deep blue.
  3. Add honey or sugar to taste if desired.
  4. For a fun twist, add a few drops of lemon juice to watch the color change from blue to purple.

The Aparajita Shankupushpam Blue Butterfly Pea Plant is not only beautiful but also versatile in its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Its vibrant flowers and rich cultural history make it a cherished plant worldwide.