Description

A richly fragrant and compact flowering plant with clusters of deep violet blooms. Well-suited to UK gardens and great for both beginners and experienced growers looking to add long-lasting colour and scent.

Highlights:

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  Flowering Season: June to September


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  Height & Spread: 30–45cm height | 30cm spread


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  Position: Full sun | Moist, fertile, well-drained soil


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  Great for: Containers, borders, windowsills, raised beds, scented gardens

Why We Love It:

Heliotrope ‘Purple’ is a beautifully scented summer annual with large heads of velvety, dark purple flowers and rich, vanilla-like fragrance that intensifies in the evening. Perfect for pots and patios, this old-fashioned favourite adds both colour and perfume to the garden. Pollinator-friendly and compact in habit, it’s ideal for small spaces or creating romantic floral displays in sunny corners.

Planting & Care Tips:

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  When to Plant: Sow indoors from February to April, transplant outdoors after last frost (typically from May onwards)


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  Where to Plant: Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in borders or containers


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  Spacing: 30–40cm apart


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  Care Notes: Water regularly and feed every 2–3 weeks during the flowering season. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage fresh growth and prolonged flowering

The Nunhead Gardener Recommends:

Position near doors, paths, or seating areas to fully enjoy the evening fragrance. Try pairing with Nicotiana or Night-Scented Stock for a summer scent garden that comes alive at dusk.

Please note:

Images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.