did you know?

According to Greek myth, the water nymph Clytie fell desperately in love with the sun god, Helios. She sat on the riverbank for 9 days and nights admiring his chariot. Moved by the sight of such adoration, the gods changed the pitiful Clytie into the exquisitely fragrant heliotrope, proclaiming it the symbol of eternal love.

general maintenance:

Pinch back tops of young plants to encourage branching. Deadhead spent blooms throughout season to encourage flowering. Remove plants after frost.

pests/diseases:

Whiteflies, rust, and leaf spot may occur.

controls:

For whiteflies, spray insects with insecticidal soap, following label directions. To discourage fungal diseases, avoid wetting leaves when watering, and remove and dispose of fallen leaves.

how to sow/plant:

Start indoors, 10?12 weeks before last frost. Choose a sunny, well-drained site, and amend soil with well-rotted manure or compost before setting young plants out at a distance equal to plants' mature spread. Water after planting.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. Feed with a slow-release or all-purpose fertilizer biweekly, following label directions.

garden hint:

In areas with hot summers, plant heliotrope where it will receive afternoon shade. To overwinter plants indoors, take cuttings in late summer.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attracts Butterflies
• Fragrant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Cut Flower

combine with:

swan river daisy and bacopa in containers; globe amaranth and small-flowered marigolds ( 'Lemon Gem') in borders.