Fan favourites

Many gardeners will be familiar with the fairy fan-flower (Scaevola aemula) pictured, with its gorgeous fan-shaped flowers, spilling happily from baskets, garden edges and containers. But this native is just one member of a large and versatile genus (Scaevola spp.) that’s worth getting to know.
Fan-flowers are perennial, prostrate herbs and small shrubs that add vibrant colour wherever they grow – from pots and hanging baskets to retaining walls and garden beds. There are more than 100 species growing naturally in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions across the world – although the vast majority are in Australia. Countless cultivars are also available.

Most feature bright green foliage and long-lasting blooms that provide nectar for bees and other insects, and birds. Hardy is a word that fits scaevola well. These plants tolerate heat, drought and exposed conditions, often looking unfazed in summer heatwaves.

While bluey-purple flowers dominate, white and pink forms are also available. They’re refreshingly low maintenance, with only minimal watering, fertilising and pruning required. Fan-flowers grow across a wide range of habitats, from coastal and temperate fan favourites regions to arid and semi-arid zones, with some thriving in the tropics. And there’s a bonus for butterfly lovers: the native meadow argus butterfly (Junonia villida) lays its eggs on the popular S. aemula – so as well as being beautiful, it’s valuable for wildlife. Check out more of our favourite fan-flowers in the April issue – get yours now!
Photo: iStock