Also known as Alkali Heliotrope · Quail Plant · Seashore Heliotrope
Salt Heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum) is a low-growing, sprawling plant with fragrant, white to pale blue flowers. It thrives in saline and sandy soils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Clay, Alkaline
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost. Ideal temperatures are between 18-27°C.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season; excess fertilizer can reduce blooms.
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
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Salt heliotrope is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but consistent moisture encourages better flowering.
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot, especially in containers.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.
Hard pruning in late winter or early spring can rejuvenate older plants and control size.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Root cuttings in moist, well-draining potting mix. Seed propagation is also possible, but cuttings often result in plants identical to the parent.
Repot container-grown plants every 1-2 years in spring, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, as this plant dislikes constantly wet roots.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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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
