Indian Heliotrope
Heliotropium indicum
Family: BoraginaceaeNative: Central and South America, now naturalized in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwideIdentified: Mar 17, 2026
An annual, erect, branched herb known for its small white to pale violet flowers arranged in characteristic curled, scorpion-tail shaped spikes (scorpioid cymes). It has large, ovate, and hairy leaves with deeply impressed veins.
Learn more about Indian Heliotrope in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
It thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It is often found growing as a weed in disturbed areas, roadside ditches, and riverbanks. While it requires little maintenance, it performs best in humid tropical environments.