Care of the plant Fuchsia magellanica or Hardy fuchsia |
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The genus Fuchsia, family Onagraceae, comprises 100 species of shrubs native to Central and South America, Tahiti and New Zealand. Some species are: Fuchsia magellanica, Fuchsia arborescens, Fuchsia boliviana, Fuchsia thymifolia, Fuchsia x hybrida, Fuchsia excorticata, Fuchsia microphylla, Fuchsia lycioides. Common names: Hardy fuchsia, Hummingbird fuchsia. This species is native to Chile and Argentina. They are deciduous shrubs of compact size and hanging branches that reach 1.80 meters (5.9 feet) in height. The leaves are opposite, ovate-lanceolate and with a toothed margin. The attractive hanging flowers can be fuchsia pink or light pink. They bloom in summer and early fall. They produce black berry-shaped fruits. They are used to form bushy groups, next to walls, as isolated specimens and in pots for terraces and patios. Fuchsia magellanica needs semi-shade exposure in hot climates such as the Mediterranean climate and full sun exposure in cooler summer climates. They do not resist frost; the winter safety temperature is 8 ºC (46.4 ºF). The soil can be normal garden soil with abundant organic matter (compost or manure). Transplantation and planting are done in early spring. Water frequently with lime-free water so that the substrate does not dry out completely. They do not resist drought. Fertilize with manure or compost in autumn and with mineral fertilizer every 20 days in summer. Prune faded flowers to encourage the appearance of more flowers. If they suffer light frosts, they can be pruned intensively in early spring. They are quite resistant to pests and diseases but are attacked by mites and aphids if they suffer from drought. They are propagated by cuttings in spring or fall. |
Images of the plant Fuchsia magellanica or Hardy fuchsia |
 Fuchsia magellanica  Fuchsia magellanica |