White fan-flower facts for kids

Quick facts for kids White fan-flower
Scaevola albida growing in the ANBG
Appin, NSW
Scientific classification
Genus:	Scaevola (plant)
Species:	albida
Occurrence data from Australasian Virtual Herbarium
Synonyms
Goodenia albida Sm.

The white fan-flower (Scaevola albida) is a special plant found in Australia. It grows in many places, from south-eastern Queensland down through eastern New South Wales and along the coasts of Victoria and Tasmania.

Unlike most plants in its family, the white fan-flower does not grow into a tall bush. Instead, it spreads out low on the ground. It forms a flat mat, usually about 30 to 40 centimetres wide.

What the White Fan-Flower Looks Like

This plant has bright green leaves. They are a bit thick and feel slightly hairy. The leaves are shaped like an oval, with edges that are a little wavy.

Flowers and Fruits

In spring or early summer, the white fan-flower bursts into many small flowers. These flowers can be snow white, pale blue, or even light purple. Each flower has five petals. They often grow in small groups of four or five flowers together.

As summer arrives, these pretty flowers change. They turn into small, papery fruits that look like tiny pots. Inside these fruits are several flat, round seeds.

How it Grows and Reproduces

The white fan-flower is quite easy to grow. Its fresh seeds can sprout quickly. You can also grow new plants from small pieces cut from an existing plant. This is called growing from cuttings.