Heliotrope - A Fragrant Delight

I love this heirloom plant  bearing clusters of purple blooms with rough, looking dark leaves and always include heliotrope in my planters. The plants prefer full sun and even moisture. Originally from South America they were introduced to Europe in the 1700s and became a favorite among Victorians. According to the symbolism of flowers, heliotrope symbolizes someone’s intentions to remain true. 

Greek legend states that the nymph Clytie was in love with the God Helios (or Apollo), but he did not return her affections (left her for another woman). Clytie pined away, spending all of her days gazing at the sun, not eating, resting or talking to anyone. Helios finally turned her into a flower and she continues to this day following his movements through the sky.