Overview
Heliotropium amplexicaule is a bushy bedding in the genus Heliotropium, part of the Boraginaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Heliotropium amplexicaule grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include bedding, containers and wildlife gardens.
About
Heliotropium amplexicaule, commonly known as summer heliotrope, is a bushy evergreen cultivar within the Heliotropium genus, which includes annuals, perennials, sub-shrubs, and shrubs. This plant thrives in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect and prefers fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils that can be acid, alkaline, or neutral. It is suitable for bedding, containers, and wildlife gardens, offering fragrant clusters of small flowers during spring and summer. It requires moist but well-drained soil and is hardy to H1c, making it ideal for conservatories or greenhouses in the UK.
About the genus
Heliotropium is a genus of flowering plants with around 325 species commonly known as heliotropes. They are highly toxic to dogs and cats, as well as to humans.
Wikipedia contributors, "Heliotropium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Heliotropium
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Heliotropium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Heliotropium amplexicaule size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bedding, Shrubs, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Bedding, Containers, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Heliotropium amplexicaule
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Generally problem free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Heliotropium amplexicaule?
Heliotropium amplexicaule prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Heliotropium amplexicaule need?
Heliotropium amplexicaule grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Heliotropium amplexicaule hardy in the UK?
Heliotropium amplexicaule has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Heliotropium amplexicaule?
Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings.
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