Contents
Description
Heliotropium Indicum, also known as Indian heliotrope or Indian turnsole, is an annual herb that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to India and is widely distributed throughout tropical Asia and Africa. The plant has a strong and pleasant fragrance, which attracts bees and butterflies. It has a wide range of medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, bruises, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Heliotropium |
| Species | Indicum |
Appearance
Heliotropium Indicum grows up to a height of 60-90 cm. It has an erect stem with branches that are covered with small hairs. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a lanceolate shape. They are 2-10 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in cymes. They bloom from June to August. The fruit is a four-seeded nutlet that is ovoid and covered with small bumps.
Care Guide
Water
Heliotropium Indicum prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogging. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight
Heliotropium Indicum requires full sunlight to grow and bloom.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent and control these problems.
Habitat
Heliotropium Indicum is commonly found in waste areas, along roadsides, and in fields. It prefers well-drained soils and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Heliotropium Indicum?
A: Heliotropium Indicum has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. It is used to treat fever, bruises, and inflammation.
Q: Can Heliotropium Indicum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Heliotropium Indicum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Heliotropium Indicum?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Heliotropium Indicum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Heliotropium Indicum is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.
Related Plants
- Heliotropium arborescens
- Heliotropium bacciferum
- Heliotropium europaeum
- Heliotropium foertherianum
- Heliotropium indicum var. argenteum
References
- “Heliotropium Indicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285135.
- “Heliotropium Indicum (Indian Heliotrope).” CABI. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/27271.
- “Heliotropium Indicum.” PlantNET – NSW Flora Online. Accessed September 20, 2021. http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Heliotropium~indicum.
