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Genus Heliotropium (Heliotrope)

Heliotropium Heliotropium arborescens Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner
hee-lee-oh-TRO-pee-um Common Name: Heliotrope
Heliotropium is a large genus of 250 species of bushy annuals, perennials, and shrubs grown for their dense clusters of very small, vanilla-almond-scented flowers. The older varities tend to be more fragrant. The blooms attract butterflies. Plant heliotrope where its scent can be appreciated: in containers or windowboxes, or at the front of a bed or border.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Small, fragrant flowers in dense clusters. Attracts butterflies. Foliage is hairy and may irritate skin and eyes.
 Care: In the garden, grow in full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Indoors, provide full light, moderate humidity, and shade from hot sun.
 Propagation: Start seeds indoors in spring at 61-64°F. Or take stem-tip or semi-ripe cuttings of cultivars in summer.
 Problems: Whiteflies, rust, leaf spot.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Heliotropium

Heliotropium arborescens 'Marine' Heliotropium arborescens 'Marine'
(Heliotrope, Cherry pie) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

'Marine' heliotrope has a compact form with broadly oval to lance-shaped, wrinkled leaves tinged with purple. In summer, it bears a profusion of fragrant deep violet-blue flowerheads up to 6 inches across.
Heliotropium arborescens cvs. Heliotropium arborescens cvs.
(Heliotrope, Cherry pie) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Heliotrope has a compact form with broadly oval to lance-shaped, wrinkled leaves tinged with purple. In summer, it bears a profusion of deep violet-blue or lavender-blue flowerheads up to 6 inches across. Cultivars vary in height as well as bloom fragrance and color.