Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea)

FamilyFabaceae
Scientific nameClitoria ternatea
Common name (English)Butterfly Pea
Common name (Malay)Bunga Telang
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as the butterfly pea, is a perennial climbing plant in the Fabaceae family. Native to tropical Asia, it is widely cultivated for its striking blue flowers, which are used as a natural food coloring, herbal tea, and in traditional medicine. The flowers, leaves, and roots have been used for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-supporting properties. With its ornamental appeal, culinary versatility, and therapeutic potential, Clitoria ternatea remains an important plant in both cultural and medicinal traditions across tropical regions.