Blue heliotrope

Heliotropium amplexicaule, commonly known as clasping heliotrope or blue heliotrope, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. Native to South America, it has become naturalized in various parts of the world. Here's a detailed description of Heliotropium amplexicaule:

Description:

• Habitat: Clasping heliotrope is often found in disturbed areas, along roadsides, and in open fields. It can thrive in a variety of soil types.

• Growth Form: This plant typically grows as a low-growing herb, reaching heights of 15 to 30 cm. It has a spreading and mat-forming growth habit.

• Leaves: The leaves are simple, elliptic to lanceolate, and arranged alternately along the stems. They are clasping, meaning that the base of the leaf partially surrounds the stem.

• Flowers: The flowers are small, fragrant, and arranged in clusters. They are tubular and have a five-lobed corolla. The color of the flowers is typically a shade of blue or violet, but pink or white varieties may also occur.

• Blooming Period: Clasping heliotrope produces flowers from late spring to early fall.

• Fruits: The fruit is a four-seeded nutlet.

Identification Features:

1. Clasping Leaves: The leaves are clasping, meaning they partially surround the stem at the base.

2. Tubular Flowers: The small, tubular flowers are arranged in clusters and have a five-lobed corolla.

3. Low-Growing Habit: Clasping heliotrope has a low-growing and spreading growth habit.

Ecological Role:

• Clasping heliotrope is often used as a ground cover in landscaping due to its spreading habit.

Cultural Uses:

• While not widely cultivated for specific uses, clasping heliotrope is appreciated for its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes.

Toxicity:

• Some species of Heliotropium contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to livestock if ingested.