Tree-heliotrope (Heliotropium foertherianum)

Also known as: Tree heliotrope, Octopus bush

Tree-heliotrope (Heliotropium foertherianum) is a hardy tropical tree that thrives in coastal conditions, tolerating both saline soil and strong winds. The wood is versatile and is commonly used in creating handicrafts, tools, and even goggle frames. However, in certain regions, it has faced overharvesting due to its use as firewood.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Tree-heliotrope

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

3.5 m

Spread

5 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

5 mm

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Tree-heliotrope

Quickly Identify Tree-heliotrope

To identify Heliotropium foertherianum, look for a small tree or shrub with greyish-green leaves covered in tiny hairs, and clusters of small white or pale lavender flowers. It typically grows in coastal areas and sandy soils.

Scientific Classification of Tree-heliotrope

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Boraginales

Family

Heliotropiaceae

Genus

Heliotropes

Species

Tree-heliotrope

Planting and Growing of Tree-heliotrope

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Tree-heliotrope?

Heliotropium foertherianum, often known for its love of tropical climates, requires about 300 milliliters of water per session. The key is to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged; water until it just begins to seep out of the drainage holes. This indicates that the water has permeated the root zone effectively.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Tree-heliotrope? ›

What should I do if my Tree-heliotrope is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Tree-heliotrope? ›

How to save an overwatered Tree-heliotrope? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Tree-heliotrope?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Heliotropium foertherianum flourishes under full sun to partial sun conditions. Such light exposure supports optimal photosynthesis, ensuring vibrant growth and robust flowering, thus enhancing the plant's overall health.

What is the optimal environment for growing Heliotropium foertherianum? ›

How can I make sure my plant gets the required light exposure? ›

What benefits arise from optimal lighting conditions for this plant? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Tree-heliotrope?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Heliotropium foertherianum thrives in environments where the temperature remains consistently within 68°F to 77°F. This range provides optimal conditions for photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall metabolic functions. Maintaining this temperature ensures robust growth and vibrant flowering, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor planting.

What Soil is Best for Tree-heliotrope?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Heliotropium foertherianum thrives in well-drained soil, preventing root rot and ensuring adequate oxygen reaches the roots. Good drainage helps maintain healthy root systems and supports robust plant growth. A nutrient-rich soil supports the plant's nutritional needs, promoting lush foliage and vigorous flowering. Such soil provides essential minerals and organic matter that enhance plant vitality. While the plant prefers well-drained soil, it also benefits from moderate moisture retention. This balance prevents the soil from drying out too quickly, ensuring consistent hydration for optimal growth.

How to Fertilize Tree-heliotrope?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Heliotropium foertherianum requires moderate fertilization. For liquid fertilizers, use a balanced formula like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, diluted to half strength. Apply 100 ml per plant during growing months.

How to Prune Tree-heliotrope?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by identifying branches that are dead, diseased, or damaged. Cut these branches away first to prevent any disease from spreading. Following the natural shape of the Heliotropium foertherianum, trim back overgrown or awkward branches to maintain a pleasing form and encourage healthier growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Tree-heliotrope plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Summer

Early in the morning, when the plant is well-hydrated, select healthy, disease-free stems about 4-6 inches long with several sets of leaves. Use sterilized pruning shears to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node.

Collect seeds from mature fruit, making sure they are fully ripened. Clean the seeds to remove any pulp or residue, then dry them completely before planting.

For seeds, use a seed tray with well-draining soil to plant them. Water lightly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. For cuttings, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a pot with a moist growth medium, then cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.

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How to Repot Tree-heliotrope plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot your Heliotropium foertherianum when you notice the roots growing out of the drainage holes, the soil compacting, or the plant's growth stunted. These signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to thrive.

Select a pot slightly larger than the current one, with sufficient drainage holes. A slightly larger pot prevents excess water retention, reducing root rot risk, and providing ample space for root expansion, while maintaining optimal moisture levels.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix for Heliotropium foertherianum. This type of mix allows for adequate drainage while retaining necessary nutrients, thus preventing waterlogged conditions and encouraging robust root development.

Toxicity of Tree-heliotrope

Is Tree-heliotrope toxic to humans?

Tree-heliotrope is characterized by a notable level of toxicity to humans, mainly through the act of ingestion. The entire plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are detrimental compounds capable of inducing poisoning. When consumed, these alkaloids can inflict significant liver damage and may manifest in symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and even liver failure. The symptomatology can be particularly intricate, with affected individuals potentially suffering from jaundice, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy, highlighting the severe ramifications on liver function. Given that all parts of the tree-heliotrope are toxic, it is crucial to exercise caution to avoid accidental ingestion, particularly since no component of this plant is suitable for human consumption.

Is Tree-heliotrope toxic to cat?

The tree-heliotrope exhibits moderate toxicity and may present a risk to the health of cats. Felines can accidentally consume various parts of the tree-heliotrope, resulting in poisoning from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids it contains. The whole plant is toxic, and ingestion may lead to signs of physical distress. To protect your cat's health, it is vital to restrict their access to tree-heliotrope. Should ingestion occur, prompt veterinary assistance is critical to address the consequences and secure the most favorable outcome for the affected feline.

Is Tree-heliotrope toxic to dog?

Tree-heliotrope presents a moderate risk of toxicity for dogs. When dogs accidentally consume any part of this plant, whether out of curiosity or by chance, they risk being poisoned. The entire plant is considered toxic, indicating that ingestion of any portion can result in harmful health effects. Dogs that have ingested tree-heliotrope may show symptoms such as liver injury, lethargy, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, and decreased appetite as a result of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. It is vital for dog owners to keep a vigilant watch over their pets and restrict their access to tree-heliotrope. If poisoning is suspected, prompt veterinary attention is crucial to effectively manage the symptoms and optimize the chances of recovery.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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