Beach Naupaka (Scaevola plumieri)

Beach Naupaka

Scaevola plumieri

Its fan-shaped blooms face one side like half a heart, a coastal hardy beauty. Evergreen shrub; common name: beach naupaka.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of coastal salt spray and direct sunlight
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Tolerates mild coastal frosts down to 10°C; thrives in warm subtropical to tropical temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, leathery elliptical leaves with waxy salt-tolerant coating and smooth margins
  • Flower: Fan-shaped white or pale lavender blooms, fully developed only on one side of the inflorescence
  • Stem: Woody branching stems with a sprawling, ground-hugging habit in natural coastal habitats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil during active growth

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prioritize flowering over excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder top-dressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the plant base; water lightly to release calcium into the soil
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower heads regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season
  • Trim overgrown branches in early spring to maintain a compact, tidy shape
  • Prune damaged or diseased stems promptly to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans with typical handling or ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental coastal landscaping; erosion control on sand dunes