Fan Flower, Beach Fanflower
scaevola taccada
Also known as: ["White Fanflower","Coastal Fanflower"]
Overview
A coastal shrub with distinctive fan-shaped flowers and salt-tolerant foliage, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","pet-friendly","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Goodeniaceae |
| Genus: | Scaevola |
| Botanical Name: | Scaevola taccada |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or containers in warm, humid climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; a cactus or succulent mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning is best done annually after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenat
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak sun hours; for indoor plants, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing directly under harsh midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually to refresh nutrients.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures and is sensitive to cold drafts.
Protect from sudden temperature drops; maintain consistent warmth; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; apply fertilizer to moist soil to ensure proper absorption; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
A mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterilized scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts first; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (about 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; also repot if the soil has degraded or drainage has worsened.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days to recover.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can be fatal.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected location during cold spells; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; high humidity combined with heat may cause fungal issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate water to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; water before and after fertilizing; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume the fruits of Scaevola taccada may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The toxic compounds are not highly potent, but ingestion should still be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the fruits of Scaevola taccada may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicScaevola taccada contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scaevola taccada suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal environments.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How often should I water Scaevola taccada?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Goodeniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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