Cherry Pie Plant 'Chatsworth'

Heliotropium arborescens 'Chatsworth' is a classic Victorian-era cultivar prized for the intense, vanilla-and-almond fragrance of its flowers, which gives it the common name 'Cherry Pie'. While treated as a tender perennial or half-hardy annual in the UK (H2), it is a vital component of the traditional herb garden for its sensory appeal. This cultivar boasts deep purple, almost black-green crinkled leaves and large clusters of tiny, deep violet-blue flowers. It typically grows to 40-50cm and is most often grown in containers or sunny borders where its scent can be enjoyed. It requires regular watering and feeding to perform at its best and should be moved indoors to a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory over winter. The nectar-rich blossoms are adored by butterflies. Though not used for culinary purposes, its historical significance as a 'physic garden' plant and its olfactory qualities are unsurpassed.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Rich, well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H2 — down to 1°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.