Heliotrope
August 5th 2008 10:11
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Shrubby perennial
This sweet smelling plant gets its name from the ancients who recognized the plants ability to follow the course of the sun. After opening it gradually turns from east to west and during the night turns back east to greet the rising sun.
Heliotrope is a shrubby perrenial that grows to about 75 centimeters high and 1 metre wide.
The sweetly scented flowers come in purple or mauve and appear from early spring to late autumn, the perfume lays claim for this plants other name the Cherry pie plant.
An old fashioned plant that is easily grown in a frost free spot in the garden. Soil should not be allowed to dry out, and a little liquid manure when in bud will give better colours and larger blooms. Cut back after flowering for repeat blooms.
Heliotrope grow wild on the mountain sides of Peru and are said to not like extremes of temperature, mine seems to tolerate them ok though.
In some parts of the U.S.A a sprig of heliotrope is always included in a brides bouquet for good luck.
If your after an attractive plant with a delightful perfume this is the plant for you.
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