Common names: Paradise tree, dysentery bark, bitterwood

Key Characteristics:

Vining habit:

         It's a climbing vine with slender stems and tendrils.

         Striking flowers: The most distinctive feature is its large, vibrant blue flowers, though some cultivars may have white or pink flowers.

Legume:

         It belongs to the legume family, producing long, flat pods containing seeds.

Uses:

Culinary:

         Natural food coloring: The flowers produce a beautiful blue pigment that is used to color food and drinks. It's often used in Thai cuisine to color rice, desserts, and herbal teas.

Edible flowers:

         The flowers can be consumed fresh or dried and used to decorate dishes.

Traditional medicine:

         In Ayurvedic medicine, it's used to improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and enhance memory.

Modern research:

         Studies have shown potential benefits in treating various ailments, including Alzheimer's disease and depression.

Ornamental

         It's widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and climbing habit