Smooth Heliotrope
Heliotropium curassavicum

Family: Boraginaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It lives for only a few years. It forms a mound. It grows 40 cm high and spreads 60 cm wide. The stems and leaves are fleshy. The leaves are narrow and sword shaped and 5 cm long. They are light green. The flowering stalk is at the ends of the plant. It can be 10 cm wide and is first cream but matures to purple.

There are about 250 Heliotropium species. Several Heliotropium are used in medicine.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in the tropics and subtropics. It can grow on sandy and salty soils. In Pakistan it grows from sea level to 300 m altitude. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Bahrain, Botswana, Central America, Chile, Dominican Republic, East Africa, Guiana, Guyana, Haiti, Hawaii, India, Madagascar, Mediterranean, Middle East, Mozambique, North America, Pacific, Pakistan, Paraguay, South America, St. Kitts and Nevis, United Arab Emirates, UAE, USA, West Indies

How it is used for food

The leaves are used in salads and as a potherb. Dried leaves are brewed into tea. The ashes of the plant are used as a substitute for salt. Caution: It is toxic for animals.

Edible parts

Leaves - tea

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Beach Heliotrope, Nena, Rahab, Seaside heliotrope

Synonyms

Heliotropium glaucum Salisb.;