Gullfeed

(Scaevola plumieri)

Gullfeed (Scaevola plumieri)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Scaevola plumieri, commonly known as Gullfeed, is an evergreen perennial subshrub, shrub, or herb native to coastal dunes, sandy shores, and mangrove edges in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It typically forms a dense, many-branched clump reaching up to 2 meters in height with a similar spread. The succulent, hairless leaves are arranged at the tips of the branches, contributing to its distinctive appearance. The inflorescence consists of a series of cymes in the axils, each with one to seven stalkless flowers. The corolla is white or greenish, with a tube 10–12 mm long and 3 mm broad, which is crowded with hairs inside. The fleshy fruit is blue or black and measures 10 to 15 mm in diameter. Seeds are not dispersed from the fruit, which aids in local propagation.

Gullfeed is valued for its tolerance to salt spray and sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for seaside gardens and restoration projects. It is also used as ground cover or in border plantings in tropical and subtropical landscapes. While it thrives in part shade, it can also tolerate full sun if acclimated. It requires low amounts of water and well-drained soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Gullfeed is relatively low-maintenance, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 2-5 feet
  • Width: 3-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Coastal dunes, sandy shores, and mangrove edges in tropical and subtropical regions

Other Names

Common Names: Black Soap, Borbon, Bosborin, Cerise Bord De Mer, Coralillo, Epinard La Mer, Gull Feed, Inkberry, Mad Moll, Prune Bord De Mer

Scientific Names: , Scaevola plumieri, Scaevola lobelia, Scaevola thunbergii, Lobelia plumieri, Scaevola senegalensis, Lobelia americana, Cerbera ovata, Scaevola ivaefolia, Scaevola ivifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Scaevola plumieri (L.) Vahl