Heliotropium curassavicum aka Smooth Heliotrope

Taxonomy

Heliotropium curassavicum, also known as salt heliotrope, is a flowering plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae). It is native to the Americas, from Canada to Argentina, including the West Indies and Hawaii, and can also be found in Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe as an introduced and sometimes invasive species. This perennial herb can take the form of a prostrate creeper or a somewhat erect shrub, reaching up to 0.5 m (1.6 ft) in height. The stem and foliage are fleshy, with thick, oval or spade-shaped leaves. It thrives in salty soils, such as beach sand, alkali flats, and salt marshes, and is often found in disturbed coastal sites. The plentiful inflorescences are curled, coiling double rows of small bell-shaped flowers that are white with five rounded lobes and a purple or yellow throat. Salt heliotrope is a super rare houseplant that needs regular watering to thrive, and does best in long-lasting, direct light, less than 1 foot from a window, with well-draining soil.

Common names

Smooth Heliotrope, Seaside Heliotrope, Seashore Heliotrope

How to care for Smooth Heliotrope

Difficulty

Smooth Heliotrope is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Smooth Heliotrope should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Smooth Heliotrope loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Smooth Heliotrope requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Smooth Heliotrope will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Smooth Heliotrope to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.


More info:
Wikipedia