Choosing the right plant for a sunny, warm spot in your garden means selecting varieties that thrive in the heat and won’t wilt under the sun’s rays. Fortunately, there’s a remarkable heat-tolerant flower from Australia that will thrive in such conditions, offering a stunning display of vibrant blooms throughout the summer — the fan flower (Scaevola aemula).
This beautiful herbaceous perennial enjoys hot, dry summers similar to its native environment. As such, it can be grown as a perennial only in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11, but it can also be cultivated as a summer annual in other zones. The fan flower also thrives in pots, making it perfect for brightening up a sunlit patio. You can even bring it indoors during the colder months.
This plant is ideal for hanging baskets, adding charm to your porch. Its soft green leaves have toothed edges, and the flowers are uniquely arranged in a fan shape. While the species primarily features a lovely purple hue, the ‘Whirlwind’ range of cultivars, developed by Proven Winners, offers hybrids in white, pink, and blue shades as well.
Growing Fan Flower is Simple
For optimal growth, plant fan flowers in the spring when soil temperatures reach 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This timing ensures you enjoy their beautiful blooms all summer long, as Scaevola is an easy-to-cultivate flowering annual. With a height of around 14 inches and a spread of up to 24 inches, it is ideal for the outer edges of garden beds. Its trailing habit makes it excellent as ground cover or for cascading over rocks in arid landscapes.
If your soil has organic content, there is no need for additional fertilizer. Be cautious with phosphorus, as many Australian natives are sensitive to it. After planting your fan flower, water it initially, then let the soil dry before watering again to prevent root rot. This drought-tolerant plant requires minimal watering, even during dry spells.
One of the advantages of this resilient plant is its self-cleaning nature, eliminating the need for deadheading spent blooms. Its abundant, colorful flowers will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. If you’re seeking additional plants to fill in sunny areas, consider exploring other beautiful flowers that thrive in full sun.
