Overview
Clitoria laurifolia Poir., commonly known as blue pea or Clitoria, is a flowering plant species in the family Fabaceae. It is a woody, climbing vine native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and America. The plant is popularly known for its striking blue flowers that resemble the female genitalia, hence its name “Clitoria.”Appearance
The plant has twining or trailing stems that can grow up to 6 m long. It has compound leaves, consisting of three oval or elliptical-shaped leaflets, which are glabrous and glossy on the upper surface. The flowers are showy, bright blue, and about 4 cm in diameter, with a distinct shape that is likened to the female reproductive organ. The fruit is a legume, containing small, black or brown seeds that are sharply angled.Common Names
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. has numerous common names in different languages and regions. Some of its most popular names include blue vine, butterfly pea, Cordofan pea, Darwin pea, parrot's beak, pigeon wings, shankhapushpi (in Sanskrit), and tan choon (in Malay).Uses
The plant has various medicinal, culinary, and ornamental uses. In traditional medicine, the roots, leaves, and flowers of Clitoria laurifolia Poir. have been used to treat different ailments such as fever, cough, asthma, and psychological disorders. Some studies have also suggested that the plant has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In culinary, the flowers are used to add color and flavor to different dishes such as rice, tea, and desserts. In some cultures, the plant is also used to produce blue dye for textiles and food coloring. Finally, Clitoria laurifolia Poir. is grown as an ornamental plant because of its attractive flowers and foliage. It is commonly used as a trellis or wall climber and can also be grown in pots or hanging baskets.Light Requirements
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. requires plenty of direct sunlight to grow and flower properly. The plant needs at least six to eight hours of sunlight a day. If the plant does not receive enough sunlight, it may grow weak and spindly.
Temperature Requirements
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. grows best in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature for the plant ranges from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It is important to keep the plant warm, particularly during the winter months. The plant can tolerate some fluctuation in temperature but cannot withstand cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it grows best in a fertile sandy loam soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5). It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as they can lead to root rot, which may cause the plant to die.
Cultivation Methods
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. is a perennial plant that can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. It is recommended to plant them during the warm seasons of the year, ideally in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant requires a good amount of sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for Clitoria laurifolia Poir. depend on the weather conditions, but in general, it needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. During the dry seasons, it may require more frequent watering, but it is essential to prevent waterlogging as it can cause the root to rot. The best time for watering is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid water evaporation.
Fertilization
Adding organic fertilizers to the soil can improve the growth and health of Clitoria laurifolia Poir.. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers can be applied during the growing season, which will enhance foliage growth. Fertilizers need to be added in the right proportion, and the application frequency should not be excessive. As the plant is sensitive to salt accumulation in the soil, it is essential to flush the soil occasionally to remove any excess salt.
Pruning
Pruning Clitoria laurifolia Poir. is beneficial to maintain the plant's shape and size. It can be done selectively to remove any diseased, defected or dead branches. The best time to prune is during the early spring season, right before the growing season begins. The plant's flowering can be promoted by removing the tips of overly long branches. To ensure the plant receives enough sunlight and air circulation, it is essential to remove any crowded or crossing branches.
Propagation of Clitoria laurifolia Poir.
Clitoria laurifolia Poir., commonly known as Blue butterfly pea, is a perennial plant native to Asia and Australia. It is usually propagated through seeds, division or cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The propagation through seeds is the simplest and most common method utilized for Clitoria laurifolia Poir. It is possible to extract the seeds from the pods and sow them directly into the soil, or to plant them in pots filled with good quality potting mix. The optimum temperature for seed germination is around 25-30°C. The seeds should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until they sprout.
Propagation through division
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. can also be propagated through division. This method involves splitting the plant into multiple sections, each with its roots and foliage. To divide a Clitoria laurifolia Poir. plant, carefully dig it out of the soil and then separate the sections using a sharp knife. Plant the divisions into pots filled with good quality potting mix, and water them well. Keep the pots in a warm and bright location until new growth appears.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method that could be used for Clitoria laurifolia Poir. This method involves taking a stem cutting approximately 10-15cm long from a mature plant. Ensure that the stem cutting has at least two or three nodes and remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Then, dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with potting soil. Water the potting soil well, then cover it with a clear plastic bag, creating a miniature greenhouse. Keep the cutting in a bright location, but protect it from direct sunlight. Rooting should occur in four to six weeks, and once the cutting shows new growth, remove the plastic cover gradually to harden the plant off to the atmosphere.
Disease and Pest Management for Clitoria laurifolia Poir.
Clitoria laurifolia Poir. is a popular plant employed for medical purposes in various parts of the world. However, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that may affect its growth, yield, and economic value. Here is a detailed discussion on how to manage the commonly found diseases and pests that affect Clitoria laurifolia Poir.
Pests
Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from plant tissues causing leaf curling, stunted growth and reduced yields. The first step in managing aphids is to keep the growing area clean and free of weeds. Other means include handpicking of affected leaves and crushing them, using insecticidal soap, introducing biological control, and application of neem oil.
Cutworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the plant stem, leading to stem damage and wilting. Managing cutworms involves handpicking them, use of pheromone traps, and beneficial insects such as nematodes and parasitic wasps.
Thrips: These are small insects that feed on the plant's shoots, flowers, and fruits. They cause stunted growth, leaf deformation, and reduced yield. Thrips can be managed by introducing predatory insects such as Montdorensis and Orius, using reflective mulch or sticky traps, and application of neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves, rendering them yellow, and eventually causing leaf fall. To control leaf spot, it is advisable to remove and destroy all the affected parts and spraying of fungicides such as copper or azoxystrobin.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that causes stunted growth, wilting, and eventually, death. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and use of fungicides such as Trichoderma.
Mosaic virus: This is a viral disease that causes yellow or green mottling on leaves, distortion, and stunted growth. The best way to manage mosaic virus is by removing the infected plants, controlling the insect vectors, and practicing crop rotation.
In summary, adhering to good agricultural practices such as keeping the growing area clean, maintaining proper drainage, and practicing early pest and disease detection can help prevent and manage pests and diseases of Clitoria laurifolia Poir.
