Sickle Pigeonwings: A Lesser-Known Caribbean Native Worth Considering
If you’re looking to add a touch of Caribbean charm to your garden, you might want to get acquainted with sickle pigeonwings (Clitoria falcata). This perennial herb isn’t your typical garden center find, but for gardeners interested in native plants or those living in tropical climates, it offers an intriguing option that deserves a closer look.
What Exactly Are Sickle Pigeonwings?
Sickle pigeonwings belong to the same genus as the more famous butterfly pea flower, but Clitoria falcata is its own unique species. This perennial forb (that’s just a fancy way of saying it’s a non-woody flowering plant) is native to Puerto Rico and has a fascinating botanical history. You might also see it listed under its scientific synonyms Clitoria rubiginosa or Martiusia rubiginosa in older references, but don’t let that confuse you—it’s the same plant!
Where Does It Call Home?
This Caribbean native is naturally found in Puerto Rico, where it has adapted to the island’s unique climate and growing conditions. As a true island endemic, sickle pigeonwings represents the kind of specialized flora that makes Caribbean ecosystems so special and biodiverse.
The Flexible Nature of Sickle Pigeonwings
One of the most interesting things about this plant is its adaptability when it comes to moisture. Classified as facultative in wetland terms, sickle pigeonwings can handle both wet and dry conditions. This means it’s equally happy near a pond edge or in a regular garden bed—talk about versatile! This flexibility makes it potentially valuable for gardeners dealing with varying moisture conditions throughout the year.
Should You Grow Sickle Pigeonwings?
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. While sickle pigeonwings sounds like it could be a wonderful addition to the right garden, there’s limited information available about its specific growing requirements, appearance, and garden performance. This lack of readily available cultivation information suggests it’s not commonly grown outside its native range.
If you’re gardening in Puerto Rico or a similar tropical climate, this native species could be an excellent choice for supporting local ecosystems. However, for gardeners elsewhere, you might want to consider better-documented alternatives in the same plant family, such as the well-known butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) which offers similar botanical interest with much more available growing guidance.
What We Know About Growing Conditions
Based on its native habitat in Puerto Rico, sickle pigeonwings likely prefers:
- Warm, tropical to subtropical climates
- Well-draining soil that can handle occasional moisture fluctuations
- Partial to full sun exposure
- Protection from cold temperatures and frost
A Note for Responsible Gardeners
Since information about this species is limited, including its conservation status and availability in the nursery trade, it’s important to source any plants responsibly. If you’re interested in growing sickle pigeonwings, look for reputable native plant suppliers or botanical gardens that might have experience with Caribbean natives.
The Bottom Line
Sickle pigeonwings represents the kind of hidden botanical gem that makes native plant gardening so exciting. While it may not be the easiest plant to find or grow outside its native Puerto Rico, it serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity found in our native flora. For most gardeners, exploring better-documented members of the Clitoria genus might be a more practical starting point, but for those committed to Caribbean native plants or botanical collecting, sickle pigeonwings offers a unique challenge and opportunity to grow something truly special.
Whether you choose to seek out this particular species or not, consider incorporating native plants into your landscape—they’re always the best choice for supporting local wildlife and creating sustainable, beautiful gardens that truly belong in their environment.
