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.

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.

More in the Heliotropium genus

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