Heliotropium Anomalum

Description

Heliotropium Anomalum, also known as the Indian heliotrope or blue heliotrope, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to India and can grow up to 50 cm in height. The plant has a strong fragrance and produces clusters of small, blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful color and scent.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Heliotropium Anomalum has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 50 cm tall and 60 cm wide. Its leaves are long and narrow, with a wavy edge and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are arranged in dense, terminal spikes that can grow up to 15 cm long.

Care Guide

Heliotropium Anomalum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep it healthy:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
• Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant Heliotropium Anomalum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Heliotropium Anomalum grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Heliotropium Anomalum is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy by providing it with the right growing conditions and using appropriate pest control methods when necessary.

Habitat

Heliotropium Anomalum is native to India and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, rocky slopes, and forest edges. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Heliotropium Anomalum grow indoors?
• A: Yes, it can grow indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny location and provided with the right growing conditions.
• Q: How often should I fertilize Heliotropium Anomalum?
• A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
• Q: Is Heliotropium Anomalum toxic to pets?
• A: Yes, it can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
• Q: Can Heliotropium Anomalum tolerate drought?
• A: No, the plant prefers moist soil and may not survive prolonged periods of drought.

Related Plants

• Heliotropium arborescens
• Heliotropium foertherianum
• Heliotropium angiospermum
• Heliotropium curassavicum

References

• “Heliotropium Anomalum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/heliotropium-anomalum/.
• “Heliotropium Anomalum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281949.
• “Indian Heliotrope.” The Spruce. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/indian-heliotrope-growing-profile-4843518.