Fan Flower (Scaevola aemula): The Heat-Loving, One-Sided Bloomer

Fan flower, or fanflower, is a tough, trailing Australian native with unique, fan-shaped flowers (all petals on one side) in blue, purple, white, or pink. It blooms continuously from spring to frost without deadheading. Scaevola aemula thrives in heat, humidity, and drought.

Cultivation Ease

Full sun. Well-drained soil. Very drought-tolerant. No deadheading needed. Fertilize occasionally. Perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, and as a ground cover in hot, dry spots. In zones 9-11, perennial; elsewhere, annual.

Varieties and Uses

Many cultivars: 'Blue Wonder', 'White Wonder', 'Pink Fan'. Combine with other heat-lovers like lantana, verbena, portulaca. It's a workhorse for summer containers.

Taxonomic Details