Butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea)

The butterfly pea plant holds cultural and practical significance in India and Southeast Asia. In India, its flowers are considered sacred and often used in daily puja rituals. The distinctive shape of the flowers inspired the plant’s Latin name, Clitoria ternatea. In Southeast Asia, the plant's flowers serve as a natural food dye for various dishes and beverages. Additionally, the plant has applications in traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda, where it is utilized for its purported health benefits. The pods and leaves are also consumed as vegetables in some regions.