Smooth Heliotrope
Heliotropium curassavicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Smooth Heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth heliotrope is a low-growing perennial with small white or pale blue flowers that bloom from summer through fall. This drought-tolerant native forms spreading mats and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Heliotrope takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreading mat habit appears weedy
- Small flowers lack visual impact for formal landscapes
- Common name includes 'weed-like' associations
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beetles from June through October. Its extended flowering season makes it valuable for supporting pollinators during late summer and fall when fewer plants are in bloom.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Smooth Heliotrope fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.