Plant of the Month for July
Fuchsia
Onagraceae spp.
A Genus of approximately 100 species of deciduous or evergreen trees, shrubs and a few perennials, with over 8,000 hybrids and cultivars which have been developed for their attractive flowers and a few having golden or variegated foliage.
Fuchsias originate from mountainous areas of central, South America and New Zealand. Although not native to the UK, fuchsias can be found in the majority of UK gardens. F. magellanica being the hardiest, growing wild in mild south western parts.
Fuchsias can either be grown in the garden border e.g. F.'Garden News', in hanging baskets e.g. F.'Torville and Dean', or in pots as conservatory or patio plants. Here at Myerscough they are grown in all three situations providing attractive displays of flower throughout the summer months.
There are many species and cultivars with a wide variety of flower size and colours, and some with decorative foliage. Some of the best include:
- F. ‘Andrew Hadfield’- produces single flowers with red tubes and sepals, and white based pink veined bright lilac-blue corollas.
- F. ‘Swingtime’-produces large double bloom flowers, that have red tubes and sepals and white corollas.
- F. ‘Rosemarie Higham’- produces single flowers coloured rose/pink, and having golden foliage.
Grow fuchsias in fertile, moist soil which is well drained in full sun or partial shade. During growth water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep slightly moist in winter months, protect from frost, or cut back to the base in frost prone areas.
Fuchsias can be propagated quite easily in spring from tip cuttings to increase numbers or replace older plants. A wide range of cultivars are available to buy in the College Plant Centre in late spring and early summer each year.
