Origin and Common Names
Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston, commonly known as the Scorpionweed or Twisted Heliotrope, belongs to the Boraginaceae family. The plant species are native to the southwestern part of the United States and northern Mexico.Appearance
This perennial plant features a woody, hairy stem that can grow up to three feet tall. It has spiral leaves that are green, rough, oval-shaped, and grow alternately up the stem. The flowers bloom in small, tightly-packed clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are purple to blue in color, tubular, and have five petals that create a star shape. The flowers are also fragrant and attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds.Uses
Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum has several uses throughout history. The Navajo people used the plant to make a poultice for skin conditions, and the Apache used it in a tea for stomach ailments. The Zuni used it for treating sores, swollen areas, and as a conditioner for the scalp. Some people use it in modern times as medicine for coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. In conclusion, the Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum is a unique and beautiful plant species with both cultural and medicinal significance. Its twisted, helical stem and beautiful flowers make it a must-see for gardeners and hikers alike.Light Requirements
Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow as vigorously or produce as many flowers in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warmer temperatures and is not tolerant of frost or freezing temperatures. It is recommended to grow it in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. The optimal temperature range for the plant to grow is between 55 and 85°F.
Soil Requirements
Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum prefers well-draining soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. It is moderately tolerant to salt spray but is not well adapted to grow in soils with high salinity. It grows best in sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter.
Cultivation methods:
Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in moist soil and moderate climates. It is imperative to plant it in well-draining soil that can retain moisture during the growing season to prevent root rot. The plant needs to be exposed to up to 6 hours of full sunlight a day.
Watering needs:
The Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston plant requires regular watering. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering as this plant is susceptible to root rot. A good way to determine when to water is to check the soil's moisture level about 2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization:
During the growing season, it is recommended to feed Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston regularly with a balanced fertilizer. Use a water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength every three weeks, then reduce the frequency to once every two months during the winter months.
Pruning:
Pruning the Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston will not only prevent it from becoming leggy but also stimulate new growth. Prune it during the growing season by pinching off the stems' tips topped with the flowers. It is not necessary to prune during the winter months.
Propagation of Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum
The Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation via Seeds
The seeds of Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum can be sown in a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be sown 0.5 to 1 cm deep in the soil. The tray should then be placed in a warm, bright location and watered regularly. The seeds will germinate within 2 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown 4 to 5 leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation via Stem Cuttings
The Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cutting should be taken from a healthy, mature plant and should be around 5 to 10 cm in length. The cutting should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The planted cutting should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered frequently. The cutting should root within 2 to 4 weeks and should be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation via Division
Heliotropium convolvulaceum var. racemosum can also be propagated through division. The plant should be dug up and the roots should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should contain a healthy root system and a few stems. The divided sections should then be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture. They should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered frequently. The divided sections should establish themselves within a few weeks and should continue to grow.
Disease Management
The plant Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston does not have many disease problems, but some diseases can still thrive under certain conditions. One of the common diseases is fungal leaf spot, which can be identified by the presence of small, dark brown spots on the leaves. The disease can be managed by removing and destroying the infected leaves as soon as possible and avoiding overhead irrigation. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease.
Another disease is powdery mildew, which is characterized by the appearance of a white powdery substance on the leaves. The disease can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides.
Pest Management
The plant Heliotropium convolvulaceum (Nutt.) Gray var. racemosum (Rose & Standl.) I.M. Johnston is relatively resistant to pests. However, some pests can still infest the plant and adversely affect its growth and health. One of the common pests is spider mites, which can be identified by the presence of small webbing in the leaves and a stippled appearance on the leaves. The pest can be managed by washing the plant leaves with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another common pest is mealybugs, which are small, soft, white insects that often congregate on the undersides of leaves. The pest can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or rubbing alcohol. Another way to manage the pest is to remove and destroy the infected parts of the plant and avoid over-fertilization.
