Perennial
Scorpion Tail
Heliotropium angiospermum
Varieties We Carry
StandardHeliotropium angiospermum
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 13.
LightFull Sun to Partial Shade
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size1-3 feet × 2-3 feet
About Scorpion Tail
An erect native Florida perennial with branched stems, veiny lanceolate leaves, and distinctive helicoid flower spikes that curl like a scorpion's tail. Small white flowers bloom year-round along one side of the coiled terminal spike. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Year-round
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Alkaline, Well-drained
Care essentials
Light
Scorpion tail thrives in full sun to partial shade in NE Florida. At least 4–6 hours of direct sun promotes the most prolific year-round blooming; it tolerates afternoon shade in hot summer months.
Water
Once established, scorpion tail is drought tolerant and needs only low to moderate supplemental water in NE Florida's sandy soils. Water young plants regularly until established; mature plants generally require no irrigation except during extended dry periods.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers well-drained, sandy or limestone soils and is unfussy about fertility. Minimal fertilizer is needed; heavy feeding is unnecessary and can produce lax, weedy growth. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot in NE Florida's summer rains.
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Common questions
Is Scorpion Tail a good plant for St. Augustine?
Scorpion Tail is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-3 feet × 2-3 feet.