Fuchsia species
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
Succeeds in any fertile well-drained circum-neutral soil, preferring one that is rich in humus. The young growth in spring, even on mature plants, is frost-tender and so it is best to grow the plants in a position sheltered from the early morning sun[K]. This is a seedling from an unlabelled hardy fuchsia cultivar that had good quality fruit[K] (this does not relate to the named cultivars included here). Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe. Germination should take place in less than 6 weeks. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. This is a cultivar and so will not breed true from seed, though this can be a good way of obtaining new fruiting forms. Inter-nodal cuttings of greenwood, 5 - 8cm long, May/June in a frame. Quick and easy, a high percentage take[78, K]. Overwinter in the greenhouse for the first year and plant out after the last expected frosts. Inter-nodal cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Very quick and easy, treat as greenwood cuttings above[K]. Cuttings usually succeed at any time during the growing season[K].
Edible uses
Fruit - raw. The fruit of all species and cultivars of this genus is edible, though in many instances the fruit leaves an unpleasant after-taste in the mouth[K].
Material uses
A number of frost-hardy cultivars can be grown as hedges in mild sheltered areas.
Habitat
Not known in a wild situation
Native range
Southern N. America.