Turnsole
Heliotropium indicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Turnsole (Heliotropium indicum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
IL
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Turnsole is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces small, curled clusters of tiny purple or white flowers from summer through early fall. This compact plant has soft, fuzzy leaves and a somewhat sprawling habit that works well as ground cover or filler in garden beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Turnsole 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.
- Often considered a weed in conventional landscaping
- Informal appearance may look unkempt to traditional gardeners
- Self-seeds readily which some view as weedy behavior
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract various bees and butterflies throughout the summer blooming period. Its extended flowering season provides a reliable nectar source during hot summer months when other plants may struggle.
Common questions
- How much sun does Turnsole need?
- Turnsole grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Turnsole bloom?
- Turnsole blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Turnsole native?
- Turnsole (Heliotropium indicum) is native to IL, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Turnsole toxic to dogs?
- Turnsole is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Turnsole toxic to cats?
- Turnsole is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Turnsole attract?
- Turnsole draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Turnsole HOA-friendly?
- Turnsole takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Turnsole? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz