How to Grow and Care for Heliotropes

The heliotrope flower (Heliotropium) is a genus of flowering plants in the Boraginaceae family containing around 325 species. They are popular and stunning flowering perennials thanks to their aromatic and delicate old cottage-garden-style flowers. Heliotrope blooms are tiny flowers that grow in clusters that follow the sun, which led to their name which is directly derived from the Greek words helios (meaning ‘sun) and tropos (meaning ‘to turn’). Some gardeners describe the scent of the flowers as vanilla, while others insist they smell like cherry pie.

Plant fast-growing heliotropes outdoors in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. This plant is toxic to humans and animals.1 Learn how to grow these attractive tender perennials in your garden.

Heliotropes Care

Heliotropes are temperate perennials that are native to the subtropical regions of Peru. When grown outside of their native range, heliotropes are usually grown as annuals as they are half-hardy and highly frost-tender. They are considered low- to medium-maintenance plants that benefit from some regular care.

Light

Heliotropes are full-sun plants that require at least six hours a day of direct sunlight. However, they prefer the morning sun, and in hot climates, intense afternoon rays may burn the delicate flowers. A location that receives bright morning sunlight and light shade in the afternoon is ideal. 

Soil

Plant heliotropes in rich, loamy soil that is well-draining but retains some moisture. They prefer soil that is rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.6 and 7.3. Heliotropes do not do well in heavy clay soils as they cannot tolerate wet feet.

Water

Heliotropes require lots of water to thrive. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, and don’t allow the plants to dry out. When grown in containers, heliotropes will need to be watered significantly more often as the plant will absorb the water more quickly. 

Temperature and Humidity

Heliotropes grow best in climates with warm days and cool nights. They do not do well in overly hot or humid weather and they are highly frost-tender.