Heliotropium
Heliotrope
Heliotropium arborescens
Also known as: heliotrope
- Annuals Containers and Baskets
- Full Sun to Part Sun
- 18" tall
Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens) is a fragrant flowering plant native to tropical regions. It has distinctive round leaves and small, colorful flowers in shades of purple, blue, white, and pink that it produces in clusters during the summer. The fragrant scent of heliotrope is strong and often compared to vanilla or cherry. These flowers are often used in ornamental gardens and as cut flowers. Heliotrope is drought tolerant, fast spreading, and enjoyed by butterflies and pollinators.
Care guides
Watering
Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens) should be watered deeply twice weekly during the summer and once a week in the fall and spring. Depending on how dry the soil is, you may want to water more often. Make sure not to over-water the plant, as this can cause root rot and other diseases. Allow the top fourth inch of the soil to become dry before each watering. In the winter, reduce the frequency of watering to every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the weather and soil moisture.
Sunlight
Sunlight requirements for heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens) may vary depending on the climate. Generally, heliotrope plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth, heliotrope should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably during the morning or late afternoon.
Pruning
Heliotrope should be pruned in late spring after it blooms. It should be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Any dead or diseased wood should be removed. It should only be pruned lightly, removing no more than a quarter of the branches to prevent it from becoming spindly and unable to bloom. If the plant becomes overgrown, it can be severely pruned down to 12-18 inches.