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Plant Profiles / Fuchsia
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Fuchsia
Fuchsia hybrids · Lady's eardrops
Elegant dangling flowers in pink, purple, red and white, like ballerinas. Perfect for shaded hanging baskets.
Part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
ModerateCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Part shade
ShadeFull sun
Morning sun only.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Don't let dry out.
Humidity
Moderate to high
LowHigh
Likes humidity.
Temperature
5–28°C (41–82°F)
CoolWarm
Dislikes heat.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
30–90 cm.
Soil
Rich potting mix
LeanRich
Moisture-retentive.
Fertiliser
Fortnightly
RarelyOften
Flowering fertiliser.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic; berries edible.
About this plant
Fuchsias come mainly from Central and South America. Trailing types suit baskets; upright types make standards. They prefer cool, humid shade.
Best spots
Shaded balconies, hanging baskets and verandas.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Fuchsia hybrids |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Origin | Central & South America |
| Plant type | Shrub |
| Mature size | 30–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Dangling bicolour |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
FloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Bud drop | Heat or dry. |
| Whitefly | Sticky traps. |
| Rust | Remove leaves. |
| Leggy | Pinch tips. |
| Wilting in heat | Shade and water. |
Common questions
Does it like sun?
Mostly shade.
Basket?
Trailing types.
Pet safe?
Yes.
Prune?
Late winter.
