Butterfly Pea

centrosema pubescens

Also known as: ["Bluebell Vine","Blue Pea","Asian pigeonwings"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Centrosema Category: Flowers

Overview

A tropical legume known for its vibrant blue flowers and nitrogen-fixing capabilities.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Centrosema
Botanical Name: Centrosema pubescens

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; stunted growth suggests poor soil fertility or drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; test pH annually.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (20–30°C); sensitive to frost; prefers stable conditions above 15°C.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering; use slow-release granules for convenience; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm (24–28°C), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of stems; heading back to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth cessation, leaf damage, potential death in prolonged frost.

Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); move potted plants indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or dormancy in extreme heat.

Solution: Increase watering, provide shade during peak sun, improve air circulation, mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Centrosema pubescens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or could be a sign of stress from environmental factors like waterlogging or poor drainage.

Wilting in Centrosema pubescens is often a response to water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage from pests or pathogens, which can impair water uptake.

Leaf spots on Centrosema pubescens are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting in Centrosema pubescens, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Centrosema pubescens is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Centrosema pubescens is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Centrosema pubescens is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans under normal conditions. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Butterfly Pea edible?

A: Yes, the flowers are used in culinary applications, such as tea and food coloring.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?

A: It can be grown in containers but requires support for climbing.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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