Scaevola, or Fan Flower, is an Australian native plant known for its unique fan-shaped blooms and cascading growth. Popular for hanging baskets, containers, and ground cover, it offers continuous blooms throughout the growing season. Its low-maintenance nature, coupled with heat and drought tolerance, makes it a resilient and appealing choice for many garden settings.
Essential Scaevola Care Requirements
Light Needs
Scaevola thrives with ample sunlight, ideally six to eight hours of direct sun daily. Full sun promotes prolific flowering. While it can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hot climates, reduced light leads to fewer blooms and less vigorous growth. Bright light ensures healthy growth and abundant flowers.
Watering Practices
Scaevola prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates drought once established. Water thoroughly, allowing the topsoil to dry before rewatering. Overwatering causes root rot, while proper watering encourages deeper root development. While Scaevola can recover from wilting due to dryness, maintaining moderate moisture levels is beneficial.
Soil Preferences
Scaevola thrives in well-draining soil, similar to its native sandy or loamy conditions. Good aeration also benefits root development. The plant is adaptable to a range of soil types and tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH conditions. For heavy soils, incorporate organic matter like compost or sand to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization Guide
Regular fertilization supports Scaevola’s continuous blooming. Apply a balanced liquid or slow-release granular fertilizer every four to six weeks. Avoid over-fertilization, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Temperature and Humidity
Scaevola prefers warm temperatures, ideally 70-85°F. Temperatures below 60°F can slow or halt flowering. Not cold hardy, it’s typically grown as an annual in most climates, though it can be a tender perennial in USDA Zones 9-11. Scaevola tolerates significant heat and moderate humidity.
Pruning for Optimal Growth
Pruning Scaevola promotes bushier growth and continuous flowering. While self-cleaning (spent blooms drop naturally), occasional trimming maintains its shape. To prevent legginess, pinch back or trim stems by about a third, especially in early spring or midsummer. Use sharp, clean pruning shears for precise cuts and to prevent disease.
Troubleshooting Common Scaevola Issues
Scaevola plants are generally resistant to problems. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering (too much or too little) or a nutrient deficiency; check soil moisture and adjust. A lack of blooms is frequently due to insufficient sunlight or inadequate fertilization. Pests like aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites can affect Scaevola but are often managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagating Scaevola Plants
Scaevola can be propagated using stem cuttings. Use healthy, non-flowering stem tips, four to six inches long. Remove lower leaves and, optionally, dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, like peat moss and perlite, keeping it consistently moist but not soggy. Rooting usually occurs within a month, after which new plants can be transplanted.