Plant Profile: Scaevola aemula

Fan Flower is a resilient herbaceous perennial that originates from Australia, thriving in arid and semi-arid environments. It is suitable for growing in hardiness zones 10 and 11, but in North Carolina, it is typically cultivated as an annual. If preferred, it can be brought indoors to survive the winter months. This plant features both upright and spreading stems, reaching a height of 1.5 feet and extending up to 2 feet wide. Its striking dark blue, fan-shaped blossoms appear in the leaf axils from summer until frost, with various cultivars available in different colors. Notably, it is tolerant of both heat and drought conditions.

For optimal growth, it is best to plant Fan Flower in well-drained soil and place it in areas with partial sunlight. It can be showcased in hanging pots or containers, or allowed to cascade down slopes or walls.