BBC - Gardening: Plant Finder - Heliotrope, Cherry pie plant
Heliotrope, Cherry pie plant
Common Name: Heliotrope, Cherry pie plant
Genus: Heliotropium
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness: Tender
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Moist, Sandy
Height: 40cm
Spread: 45cm
Time to plant seeds: February  to April
A wonderfully scented, shrubby annual which has neat, dark green leaves and clusters of small purple flowers which smell of cherries and vanilla - hence its common name, cherry pie plant.   Although it can be grown as a perennial plant in warmer climates, it's best grown as an annual in the UK as it often becomes leggy and straggling in later years. Sow seed indoors in late winter and early spring, keeping the seeds in a warm room with good light. Germination can be a bit erratic, so sow more seeds than needed and be prepared to be patient.   The plants look particularly good in summer pots on the patio where their colour and scent can be observed at close quarters.
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