Also known as Alkali Heliotrope · Quail Plant · Seashore Heliotrope
Salt Heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum) is a low-growing, succulent perennial with fragrant, sky-blue flowers, ideal for coastal gardens and saline soils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering. Can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Salt heliotrope thrives in consistently moist soil, especially during active growth. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot, particularly in cooler conditions.
Prune salt heliotrope in early spring before new growth begins to encourage bushier, more compact growth.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to promote continuous flowering and prevent seed formation. Light trims can be done anytime to maintain shape.
Propagate salt heliotrope from softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings moist and warm, and they should root within 3-4 weeks. Transplant once established.
Repot salt heliotrope every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in early spring before active growth begins.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix to ensure good aeration for the roots.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Salt Heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Heliotropium |
| Species | Heliotropium curassavicum |
Similar in genus Heliotropium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
