Scaevola is most well-known for its unique fan-shaped blooms that cascade from hanging baskets or spread out across the floor. Being native to Australia, this plant thrives in warm climates but can adapt well to other environments if the care is right.
It’s very hardy and resilient, drought tolerant, loves full sun, and blooms profusely throughout summer to first frost in several different colors such as blue, pink, purple, or white.
The fan flower comes in a wide range of sizes too. Depending on the cultivar, trailing stems can reach 2 or more feet long and attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Also known simply as fan flower or fairy fan flower, scaevola is treated as a tender perennial in Zones 10 and 11 and as an annual elsewhere.
What Do Fan Flowers Look Like?
The flowers typically have five distinct petals, but one of the petals is significantly larger and more pronounced, creating a ‘fan’ or ‘half-fan’ appearance.
This feature gives them a distinctive, asymmetrical look that stands out in gardens. Here’s a closer look at what fan flowers look like:
Flower shape: The flowers have a unique fan shape, with one larger petal and four smaller petals arranged around it. The larger petal is often a vibrant color, while the smaller petals are typically lighter or more subtle.
Color: Fan flowers come in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, white, and lavender. Some varieties may also have bi-colored or multi-colored blooms, with different shades blending together.
Size: The flowers are generally small to medium-sized, typically 1–2 inches across, but they appear in clusters, creating a full and colorful display.
Growth habit: Scaevola plants are usually trailing or spreading, making them ideal for hanging baskets, ground cover, or containers. The flowers bloom continuously throughout the growing season, offering an abundance of color.
Overall appearance: The plant itself has an attractive spreading or cascading growth habit, with lush green leaves and a vibrant burst of flowers that cover the plant. The blooms give the plant a soft, airy feel, making it perfect for adding texture and color to your garden or landscape.
Let’s dive straight into the fantastic world of scaevola!
