Heliotropium arborescens (Heliotrope)

Native to Peru, Heliotropium arborescens (Heliotrope) is a tender perennial shrub in its native habitat but is usually grown as a summer bedding annual in most areas. Blooming from summer to fall, this old-fashioned favorite produces showy rounded clusters, up to 4 in. across (10 cm), of tiny violet, purple, blue, or white flowers with a sweet delicate fragrance. Equally handsome is the foliage of prominently veined, oval, dark green leaves. Perfect for borders and containers or as a houseplant. A single Heliotrope can live for years on a patio in a large container.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall and wide (30-45 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in organically rich, moist, well-drained soils. Afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer climates. Water moderately in the growing season and apply a balanced fertilizer once a month. In the winter keep the rootball just moist.
• Perfect addition to beds and borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, coastal gardens, or containers.
• Generally disease fee. Watch for glasshouse whitefly.
• Pinch back stems to encourage bushy growth. Older leggy plants can have their stems shortened by half in spring. Propagate cultivars by taking softwood cuttings or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
• All parts of the plant are toxic by ingestion, but toxic to humans only if consumed in large quantities. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling.
• Toxic to horses.
• Native to Peru.