Scaevola taccada
Scaevola taccada · Goodeniaceae
📷 Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around scaevola taccada and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Naupaka, Scaevola
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn
- Adult size
- 1 to 2 m tall, 1.5 to 2.5 m spread
- Growth
- Fast to moderate
- Hardiness
- Tender, grow in mild climate (min. 10 °C)
- Origin
- Indo-Pacific coastal regions
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant of sand and poor soils
Expert tips
The key tip
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. In containers, ensure impeccable drainage and repot every spring, as this plant proliferates quickly and hates substrate buildup.
The common mistake
Most gardeners kill it by overwatering in winter or autumn, confusing its summer needs with general humidity tolerance—it becomes soft and rots at the base within weeks.
The pro's trick
Pinch back the stems of young plants regularly (starting at 15 cm) to get a bushy shape rather than one ungainly single stem. Three or four pinches before flowering are enough to transform a stick into a compact little bush.
Seasonal watch
In autumn, drastically reduce watering from September onwards—it's the classic pitfall of keeping the same rhythm as summer and watching leaves yellow and drop. Measured water stress stimulates winter blooming, don't suffocate it.
Care
Light
Plant your Scaevola in full sun for generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will flower less abundantly. This plant loves ventilated locations and even benefits from sea breezes, hence its nickname as the naupaka.
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. This plant tolerates dry periods once established, making it a good choice for coastal gardens.
Soil
Well-draining substrate is essential to prevent root rot. Scaevola adapts to poor, sandy or rocky soils. If growing in a pot, use light potting mix enriched with perlite or sand.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing and flowering period. Low to moderate feeding is sufficient; excess fertilizer promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering or in late winter to maintain a bushy and dense shape. Stems can be shortened by a third to encourage branching. Remove dead or damaged wood.
Diseases and pests
Scaevola is generally hardy against pests. In overly humid conditions, rot problems may occur. Ensure good air circulation and optimal drainage. Occasionally inspect young shoots for any pests.
Did you know?
Scaevola taccada is a pioneer plant of tropical beaches and coastlines: its seeds float and drift with ocean currents to colonize new shores. Its botanical name "Scaevola" comes from Latin and means "left-handed," referring to the asymmetrical fan-shaped form of its characteristic flower, where the petals all lean to one side.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.