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Fairy fan-flower

How to identify Fairy fan-flower (Scaevola aemula)

Fairy fan-flower

Fairy fan-flower is a herbaceous perennial adorned with unique fan-shaped, dark blue flowers, which bloom prolifically along the leaf axils from summer until the first frost. The plant exhibits both upright and sprawling growth patterns, reaching heights of up to 1 1/2 feet (45 cm) and spreading to an impressive width of approximately 2 feet (60 cm). Its foliage is typically lush and forms an attractive backdrop for the vivid blossoms. Notably tolerant of heat and dry conditions, fairy fan-flower is a resilient addition to a variety of garden settings.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Fairy fan-flower

1

Fan-shaped dark blue flowers with five petals in a semi-circular pattern.

2

Upright and sprawling growth reaching 1 1/2 feet (45 cm) in height and 2 feet (60 cm) width.

3

Lance-shaped leaves 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long with finely toothed margins.

4

Smooth to slightly hairy green stem, 0.1-0.2 inches (0.25-0.5 cm) thick, with dense branching.

5

Leaves exhibit a prominent central vein giving a structured appearance.

Fairy fan-flowerFairy fan-flowerFairy fan-flowerFairy fan-flowerFairy fan-flower

Detailed Traits of Fairy fan-flower

Leaf Features

The leaves of fairy fan-flower are one to two inches (2.5 to 5 cm) long and lance-shaped, with a notable elongated form. Each leaf is a vibrant green, and the margins are finely toothed, adding a slightly serrated texture to the edges. The leaves exhibit a relatively smooth surface, with a prominent central vein running along the length, giving it a structured appearance. These characteristics are key features for identifying this plant.

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Flower Features

Fairy fan-flower features distinctive fan-shaped dark blue flowers, each with five petals arranged in a unique semi-circular pattern. Situated in the axils of the leaves, these flowers measure approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) across. They bloom abundantly on trailing stems from summer until the first frost. The petals have a slightly fringed appearance, contributing to their delicate and ornamental look. Their prolific blooming nature and vibrant color make them a standout feature of this plant.

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Stem Features

The stem of fairy fan-flower is characterized by its ascending and/or procumbent nature. It exhibits a greenish hue and is generally slender, ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 inches (0.25 to 0.5 cm) in thickness. The surface of the stem is smooth to slightly hairy, facilitating easy identification. The branching pattern is relatively dense, with numerous side shoots emerging from the main stem. This growth habit allows fairy fan-flower to spread effectively across the soil surface, ensuring robust coverage and support.

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Key Facts About Fairy fan-flower

Attributes of Fairy fan-flower
Lifespan
Perennial, Annual
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
20 cm to 91 cm
Spread
30 cm to 60 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Stem Color
Green
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Fairy fan-flower

Family
Goodenia
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Genus
Naupaka
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Species
Fairy fan-flower (Scaevola aemula)
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