Heliotrope

Botanical Name

Heliotropium arborescens

Hardiness

Zones 10 to 11, grown as annual elsewhere

Height

12 to 18 inches

Width

12 to 15 inches

Flowers

Summer: violet, purple, white; fragrant

Light

Full sun

Soil

Well-drained, fertile

Planting & Care

Sow seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before last frost, be patient as it takes 3 weeks for the seeds to germinate
Space plants 12 inches apart in the the garden
Keep soil moist but not soggy
Deadhead to promote continual bloom
Can be overwintered indoors. Take 3 to 4 cuttings and root in moist vermiculite or a well-drained potting mix. I find setting the pot in a plastic bag left open increases the humidity to encourage rooting without leading to rot. Once rooted, they can be moved to their permanent container, placed in a sunny location and grow as a houseplant.
You can also bring the whole plant indoors and raise it like a houseplant. Grow in a bright, sunny window or under artificial lights and keep the soil moist. Don't be alarmed if the plant drops most of its leaves. It will soon send out new leaves more suited for its indoor location.

Problems