Also known as Alacrancillo · Eye Bright · Hatisur
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Indian Heliotrope (Heliotropium indicum) is an annual herb with small, fragrant flowers. It has a history of traditional medicinal use but is often considered a weed in g
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering. Can tolerate some shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry before watering.
Well-drained, loamy soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Regular Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes |
| Toxic for pets | Yes |
| Edible | No |
Contains toxic alkaloids, particularly senecionine and heliotrine, which can cause liver damage.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Indian Heliotrope prefers consistently moist soil, but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune Indian Heliotrope to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of young plants to promote branching. Remove spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage more blooms.
Light pruning can be done anytime, with heavier pruning in spring.
Indian Heliotrope is easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Seeds germinate best in warm conditions. Cuttings should be rooted in a moist, well-draining medium.
Repot Indian Heliotrope every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Use a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow the plant to establish.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Indian Heliotrope (Heliotropium indicum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Heliotropium |
| Species | Heliotropium indicum |
Similar in genus Heliotropium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
