Scorpion's-tail
Heliotropium angiospermum · Heliotropiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant scorpion's-tail: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Heliotrope, Cherry pie plant
- Family
- Heliotropiaceae
- Type
- Annual or tender perennial herb
- Adult height
- 12 to 24 inches
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, blue or purple flowers in clusters
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Sensitive to cold, grown as annuals in temperate climates
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions
Care
Light and exposure
Place your heliotrope in full sun for generous blooming and vigorous growth. It will also tolerate light partial shade, but flowering will be reduced. Indoors, position it near a bright window.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged. Water regularly during growth and flowering, especially in dry weather. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil and repotting
Prefer light, fertile, well-draining soil. A quality potting mix combined with sand or perlite works perfectly. Repot in spring if the plant becomes crowded in its pot.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in potassium every 15 to 20 days during the growing and flowering period. Reduce feeding in autumn and stop in winter.
Pruning and cleaning
Pinch back young plants regularly to promote branching and better shape. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Regular removal of yellowing leaves keeps the plant healthy.
Pests and diseases
Heliotrope can be affected by aphids and whiteflies, especially indoors. Check the undersides of leaves regularly. In stagnant air or excessive humidity, fungal diseases may develop; ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
Heliotrope gets its Greek name from its heliotropic behavior: its young flowers turn toward the sun throughout the day, a phenomenon called phototropism. This plant was highly prized in 19th-century Europe, particularly during the Victorian era, where its subtle, sweet fragrance made it a prestigious flower for grand gardens and luxury floral arrangements.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- HeliotropeHeliotropium curassavicum
- Indian heliotropeHeliotropium indicum
- Pasture heliotropeHeliotropium amplexicaule
- Euploca procumbensEuploca procumbens
- RosemarySalvia rosmarinus
- Fig treeFicus carica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.