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Central west garden guide
Scaevola is a versatile grou
p of flowering plants
from Australia that grow well in mild climates (Sunset
zones 8, 9, 14 through 24).
Until recently, 'Mauve Clusters' was the only scaevola
commonly available. This bright green, matting ground
cover grows 4 to 6 inches tall and eventually 3 to
5 feet across. It stays green all year and is nearly
ever-blooming in mild climates, producing 1/2-inc-wide
lavender-blue, fan-shaped flowers in clusters. |
A recent introduction findings its way into nurseries
is S. aemula 'Blue Wonder'. It produces a profusion
of 3/4-inch-wide, purplish blue flowers. Plants grow
to 1 1/2 feet tall and are good for hanging baskets.
There's confusion about the name, UC Santa Cruz
introduced S. aemula 'Diamond Head' several years
ago; some botanists think it's the same plant as
'Blue Wonder', while others think the two are different
varieties. Though similar in appearance, 'Blue Wonder'
blooms more profusely and over a longer period than
'Diamond Head.'
All scaevola grow well in full sun (filtered sun
or afternoon shade inland) and are fairly drought
tolerant once established. Soak them twice a month
in coastal areas, once a week in the hottest inland
areas.
If you can't find 'Blue Wonder' at your nursery,
have the nursery order it from Weidners' Begonia
Gardens in Leucadia, California; (619) 436-5326.
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