Heliotropium peruviana 'Alba' (White Turnsole)

A sweet-scented plant which is called Heliotrope because it follows the course of the sun. After opening it gradually turns from the east to the west and during the night turns again to the east to meet the rising sun. The Ancients recognized this characteristic of the plant and applied it. In homoeopathic medicine a tincture of the whole fresh plant is used for clergyman's sore throat and uterine displacement. A wonderfully exotic plant with dark green veined leaves and honey-vanilla scented deep violet flowers 4-6 inch wide in clusters above branching stems. The flowers open alternately, on the left, then the right, unfolding from coiled clusters of buds. They are strongly scented. Variety Alba has white flowers that smell like pure vanilla. The unforgettable vanilla fragrance is sensuous but not overpowering. Heliotrope's flowers are a first choice for every scented bouquet and will transform a terrace into a perfumed retreat. Prefers to be grown in part shade in warm climates. It can be brought indoors and enjoyed as a winter houseplant and placed back into the garden in the spring. See Heliotropium peruviana Cherry Pie.