The scaevola aemula is not a plant that is very recognizable to us by its name but, as soon as you know it, We are sure that you will want to have it in your garden. Because it is a very resistant variety, and can withstand even extreme temperatures when it comes to heat.
If you live in a place where summers are very hot, this plant is an option to take into account. Let's see the characteristics and care that this variety needs, which is also known by the nickname fan flower.
From Australia to the Mediterranean climate
The scaevola aemula is a plant native to Australia. However, its great capacity for adaptation, It has made it very popular in other parts of the world. In the case of Spain, the Mediterranean climate turns out to be one of the best for the fan flower.
In its natural habitat, this plant prefers to be in well-drained soil, and It is common to find it in coastal areas, even in sand dunes. Being very resistant to wind and salinity, it is a highly recommended plant in maritime environments, even those where the climate is quite warm.
Characteristics of the scaevola aemula
Once you have seen and identified a plant of this variety, you will have no problem recognizing it in the future. However, here are its most notable features:
- Morphology. We are facing a plant with a creeping or hanging habit. So you can plant it directly in the soil in your garden, or put it in a pot on your balcony.
- Leaves. The leaves of this plant have an intense green color, and They attract attention for their lanceolate shape, its fleshy appearance and its toothed margins. This makes scaevola eye-catching even when it is not in flower.
- Flowers. Without a doubt, the most striking feature of this plant is its flowers. They appear in clusters that arise at the ends of the stems. Each of the flowers has five petals that are partially fused, and they have a central spur. This is what gives them that particular fan shape. As for their color, we can find them in purple, white or pink. In addition, this is one of the few plants capable of producing blue flowers naturally. Its flowering is quite long and, depending on the climate, it can extend from spring to autumn.
- Size. Plant It can reach a height of between 15 and 30 centimeters, but its growth occurs more horizontally than vertically. Hence, it is a good alternative as a trailing plant to cover large areas of land, but also as a hanging plant.
- Stems. The stems of scaevola aemula are thin and flexible, but very resistant. They have the ability to root at the points where they touch the ground. This is what allows this plant to cover large areas.
- Fruits. After the flowers, This plant produces small rounded fruits. But they are not too significant.
Care of the scaevola aemula
We are facing a very attractive and resistant plant, which It has been able to spread to gardens around the world. If you want to put it in your garden to add texture and color, here are some instructions that will help you give it just the care it needs.
Lighting conditions
The number of hours of sunlight a plant receives, and Whether this light is direct or indirect, it greatly influences your state of health, and also in its beauty.
In the case of the fan flower, the perfect location for it is one where it can receive many hours of sun. And if it is direct, even better. Nevertheless, Nothing happens if you place it in a semi-shaded place. Of course, the more direct light it receives, the faster its growth will be and the more abundant its flowering will be.
Substrate conditions
Scaevola is much more comfortable in well-drained soil. Although it easily adapts to all types of terrain, It is best to plant it in soil that is between slightly acidic and neutral.
As far as possible, Avoid planting it in a substrate that is too compact and accumulates a lot of water. Since this could lead to an unwanted accumulation of water in the roots, which would lead to root rot.
Watering the scaevola aemula
One of the great advantages that this plant when it comes to adapting to different environments and climates, is that it has an important capacity for resistance to drought. If you go away from home for a few days, you won't need anyone to take care of it, because it will hold up perfectly.
However, if you provide regular watering during the driest months of the year, you will see it display all its beauty.
If you don't water it too often, Don't overdo it when you add water. With this variety, waterlogging must be avoided as much as possible, because it can be a source of root diseases.
Resistance against temperatures
This is a plant that tolerates heat very well. ANDIn the middle of summer you can be in the sun for many hours and cope well. Although in this case it is especially important that you provide it with regular watering to improve its resistance capacity.
It also has a certain tolerance for cold, but a frost can be fatal. If you are in a place where frost is frequent in winter, It is recommended that you cover the scaevola aemula at night and uncover it during the day.
Pruning the fan flower
Scaevola is a variety that responds very well to light pruning. In fact, this It helps it maintain a compact shape and stimulates continued flowering.
In addition to cutting the stems that you see are “ugly” or that have grown too much, try to remove the wilted flowers. This prevents the plant from spending energy on flowers that have already finished their life cycle, and stimulates the appearance of new flowers.
If you like your plant to be big and beautiful and you don't want to prune it, but you live in a very windy area, It may be beneficial for you to provide support or tutor. This way the air will not end up breaking any of its stems.
By following these simple guidelines, you will make your scaevola aemula grow strong and healthy, and may it brighten your days with its original flowers. What do you think of this plant, did you already know it?