The vanilla flower (heliotrope, solstice) is a welcome guest on many balconies and in flower beds. Not only the beautiful umbels of flowers but also the delicate scent of vanilla, which the plant exudes, contribute to its popularity.
As delicious as the vanilla flower smells, you can't eat it
Attractive but poisonous
Heliotrope is highly toxic in all parts of the plant. Accidental absorption of the contained pyrrolizidine alkaloids leads to permanent damage to the liver cells. Caution is therefore required, especially in households with small children.
tips
The non-hardy plant has to move indoors during the cold season. Be sure to place the solstice in the winter quarters in such a way that accidental snacking on the leaves and flowers can be ruled out.