European heliotrope - Heliotropium europaeum (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

European heliotrope

Also known as: Caterpillar weed, Heliotrope

The scientific name of european heliotrope (*Heliotropium europaeum*) has an interesting backstory. In Greek myth, Clytis was madly in love with Helios, the sun god, but this was unrequited, and Clytis became inconsolable. She stopped eating, and Helios, feeling sorry for her, turned her into a flower. This doomed her to follow the sun for all eternity. The tale lives on in the name european heliotrope, which comes from "helio" (meaning "sun") and "trope" (meaning "to turn").

Scientific classification

Species

European heliotrope (Heliotropium europaeum)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Green

Leaf Color

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of European heliotrope

Distribution of European heliotrope

Distribution Map

European heliotrope, or 'Heliotropium europaeum', is native to a broad region encompassing parts of Southern, Central, and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and portions of Western and Central Asia. Its range has extended through introduction to other continents including North America, parts of Africa, and Asia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Meadows, fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

European heliotrope is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. The entire plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, causing toxicity through touch or ingestion. Symptoms include liver damage, jaundice, pain, hepatomegaly, ataxia, and lethargy in humans. In cats and dogs, exposure can lead to gastrointestinal distress and neurological disorders. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets show poisoning signs.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for European heliotrope

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: European heliotrope thrives in moderate moisture and tolerates brief dryness. Water weekly and ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Native to temperate regions, this species adapts to fluctuations in water availability, benefiting from consistent hydration.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, european heliotrope requires balanced nutrition fertilizers applied at half-strength biweekly during the growing season. As european heliotrope enters dormancy in cooler months, reduce feeding. Watering european heliotrope before fertilization aids absorption and prevents root burn.

Pruning: Prune european heliotrope in early and late spring by removing dead or damaged stems first, then shape for healthy growth. Limit cuts to one-third of the plant to enhance air circulation, reduce diseases, and promote blooms. Adjust pruning depth and frequency based on plant health and growth rate.

Propagation: European heliotrope is propagated via cuttings from healthy stems. Use clean cuts and a rooting hormone in well-draining medium. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for rooting. Once established, transplant rooted cuttings into pots or the garden.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of European heliotrope

Distribution of European heliotrope

Toxicity

Care Guide for European heliotrope

PEOPLE ALSO ASK