Family: Goodeniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Scaevola aemula, commonly known as common fanflower or fairy fanflower, is a low-growing perennial native to Australia. It is prized for its unique fan-shaped flowers, which appear in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white and bloom over a long season. This attractive plant forms dense mounds of foliage and is widely used as a groundcover, border plant, hanging basket specimen, and container accent. Its ability to tolerate heat, drought, and a variety of growing conditions has made it a popular choice for ornamental landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions, including Hawaiʻi.

Risks & Threats:
Common fanflower is considered a low-risk species for Hawaiʻi. It has a long history of cultivation as an ornamental plant but has not demonstrated invasive tendencies or significant impacts on native ecosystems. While occasional seedlings may appear near cultivated plants, it is not known to spread aggressively or form dense infestations. As with any non-native species, responsible planting and garden management are encouraged, but Scaevola aemula is generally regarded as a safe choice for residential and commercial landscapes and poses little threat to Hawaiʻi’s natural environments.

High Risk Traits:

• Unconfirmed report of weediness
  
• Seeds, if produced, may form a seed bank
  
• Plant may be reproductive in as little as one year
  
• Fire-adapted ecology. May invade burned areas

Low Risk Traits:

• No confirmed reports of naturalization or of negative impacts have been documented
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value (showy flowers)
  
• May rarely produce fruit in cultivation
  
• Seed viability may be low