Spurred Butterfly Pea (Centrosema virginianum)

Description:  A perennial twining vine with abundant inch-wide flowers ranging in color from pale lavender to purple, with darker highlights (plants on the inventory are from purple-colored flowers) .

Natural Habitat: In Miami-Dade found in pinelands, grasslands, and edges of hammocks. Can climb up shrubs and clamber among herbaceous plants and grasses in open areas. Widespread in the Southeastern US and Caribbean. 

Planting and Care:  Best next to a fence, trellis, or shrub, but can do well in a flower garden as long as it can find some support. Flowers best in abundant sunlight. Drought-tolerant after establishment.

Pros:  Beautiful flowers.  Rapid grower. 

Cons:  Needs abundant sun for best appearance.

Note: The form on inventory is broader-leaved than that found in Miami-Dade Pine Rocklands.

Photo: R. Moas