Darwin Peas

Also called butterfly peas, this herbaceous plant grows as a vine or creeper in the semi-arid and sub-humid tropics of Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. It features striking solitary blue flowers, which can sometimes be white. Their shape is the origin of the plant’s Latin name, Clitoria ternatea. In our medicinal forest garden, it is one of the phosphorus and nitrogen-fixing plants that contribute to the garden’s fertility and richness.

Its roots produce large, round nodules that house nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Historically, it has also been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and calming properties. It may support skin and hair health, while some research suggests that it can help stabilise blood sugar levels. This antioxidant-rich plant offers a wide range of potential benefits and can be found in our herbal tea and gin.