Heliotrope Marine Seeds are a charming, old-fashioned favorite, once popular in Victorian gardens and still cultivated for perfume making in Europe. These plants feature dark blue-green leaves and velvety 4-5 inch panicles of tiny purple blossoms, exuding a rich, complex fragrance reminiscent of violets and cherries. Plant them in containers or garden beds where their sweet scent and striking color can be enjoyed throughout the summer. To start indoors, sow seeds 1 inch apart in moist seed-starting mix, 8-9 weeks before the last frost, pressing lightly but not covering as they need light to germinate. Keep warm, moist, and provide strong light. Once seedlings are large enough, transplant into individual 4-inch pots until well-established. Acclimate seedlings before planting them 10 inches apart in rich, well-drained soil in full sun or afternoon shade in hot areas. For best results, feed monthly during the growing season. Heliotropes make beautiful container plants and thrive when paired with bright or pastel flowers. Cut them back in late summer to encourage fresh regrowth and blooms.