Surdiva scaevolas, bred by Suntory Flowers, are an interesting addition to any garden or landscape. Native to Australia and Polynesia, these plants are typically grown as annuals but are actually perennials by nature. This means that they have the ability to survive and regrow for multiple years under the right conditions.
One of the unique characteristics of Surdiva scaevolas is their mounding, semi-trailing habit. Unlike the native species, which tends to have a wild and rangy growth habit, Surdivas form compact mounds and produce fan-shaped flowers on short terminal spikes. This makes them a great choice for adding texture and color to hanging baskets, containers, or garden beds.
When it comes to their lifespan, Surdiva scaevolas are typically treated as annuals in most regions. This is because they are not frost-tolerant and cannot survive cold winters. However, in milder climates or with proper protection, these plants have the potential to overwinter and return the following year. In such cases, they would be considered perennials.
In my own experience, I have grown Surdiva scaevolas as annuals in my garden beds and containers. Their vibrant flowers and unique fan-shaped blooms always add a touch of beauty and interest to my outdoor spaces. However, I have also heard from fellow gardeners in warmer regions who have successfully overwintered these plants and enjoyed their return in subsequent years.
It’s important to note that even though Surdiva scaevolas have the potential to be perennial, they may not perform as vigorously in subsequent years compared to their first year of growth. This is why many gardeners prefer to treat them as annuals and replace them each year for optimal performance and appearance.
To summarize, Surdiva scaevolas are technically perennials but are commonly grown as annuals due to their lack of cold hardiness. Their mounding, semi-trailing habit and distinctive fan-shaped flowers make them a popular choice for adding visual interest to gardens and landscapes. While they can potentially overwinter in milder climates, treating them as annuals ensures consistent performance and vigor.
