Fan Flower
Scaevola aemula 'Whirlwind Pink'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones, annual elsewhere
Native To
Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Scaevola aemula, commonly known as Fan Flower, is a low-growing, spreading perennial, often grown as an annual. It has toothed, bright green leaves and distinctive, five-petaled flowers that are arranged in a fan-like shape on one side of the stem. The 'Whirlwind Pink' cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant, densely packed pink flowers that create a striking display, along with its vigorous, trailing growth habit ideal for hanging baskets and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in spring
- Water regularly until established, then reduce watering
- Place in full sun for optimal flowering
- Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
- Apply fertilizer monthly during active growth
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments
- Neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fan Flower questions
What zones can Fan Flower grow in?
Fan Flower is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Fan Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Fan Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Fan Flower bloom?
Fan Flower typically blooms in summer, fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fan Flower need full sun?
Fan Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Fan Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fan Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Fan Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
