Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Heliotrope |
| Scientific Name | Heliotropium arborescens |
| MainColor | Purple |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Distribution |  Cultivated |
| Season Found | August (Jun - Sep) |
| ImageUrl | Heliotropium-001 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | Glyndebourne |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 03 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | A |
Flower Details
Description
Heliotropium arborescens is a tender perennial often grown as an annual, prized for its clusters of fragrant purple or violet flowers with a distinctive sweet scent, reminiscent of vanilla or cherry pie. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Distribution
Native to Peru; cultivated widely as a bedding plant in temperate regions, including the UK, but not naturalised.
Medicinal/Other Uses
In the past, heliotrope was used in perfumery and folk medicine for respiratory ailments, though it is now avoided due to toxicity.
Edibility
Not edible.
Human Toxicity
Highly_Toxic
Toxic if ingested. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can damage the liver.
Pet Toxicity
Highly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses; ingestion can cause liver failure.
Active Compounds
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (notably heliotrine) and aromatic oils responsible for its scent.