Clasping Heliotrope

On our treks around the MOSI grounds to find butterflies, caterpillars, and food to feed them, we're always on the lookout for new plants that make an appearance without waiting for an invitation. Sometimes we find unusual or fun native wildflowers, like Baldwin's Eryngo (Eryngium baldwinii) or Wild Gaura (Gaura angustifolia). Other times, we discover non-natives that have found their way here by wind, bird, or other natural method. Some are invasive, like Caesar Weed (Urena lobata), while others are just interesting or downright beautiful. We recently stumbled upon a plant that seems to fit in the latter category of non-native but not particularly harmful: Clasping Helioptrope (Heloptropium amplexicaule).

The tiny purple flowers massed in large colonies alerted us to the presence of this low-growing member of the borage family (Boraginaceae), growing in full sun and very dry conditions. Once we took a closer look, we noted the curved flower spikes, which gave us our first clue to the identification of the plant. The tiny purple blossoms boast yellow centers, and give off a faint scent almost reminiscent of citron. The foliage is sprawling, with fuzzy green leaves, and appears to root along the ground as it grows and spreads.

After a minute or two of observation, we realized these little colonies of blooms are hotbeds of tiny butterfly activity. Least Skipperlings and Southern Skipperlings abound, making the Fiery Skippers, Barred Sulphurs, and Tropical Checkered Skippers nearby look quite large in comparison. The Monarch that joined them later seemed positively gigantic as it drifted in lazy patterns, casting shadows on the smaller butterflies below.

Clasping Heliotrope is native to South America, and is considered an invasive pest in parts of Australia. It is toxic to livestock, and is able to out-compete crops grown in those areas. Here in Florida, though, we can't find any documented evidence of this plant being a real problem, though it's not really found for sale either. We transplanted a few to some raised beds near the butterfly garden for observation and possible cultivation in the future.