Fuchsias are already extremely diverse as wild plants with about 100 different species, but with over 7,000 cultivated varieties, they are certainly among the most bred plants worldwide. It’s no surprise then that their growth forms can be very different. From the few-centimeter-high, yellow-flowering Fuchsia procumbens to the pink-violet-flowering tree fuchsia Fuchsia excorticata. In its native New Zealand, this species can grow into an impressive 10-meter-high tree.

The vast majority of wild fuchsias come from Central and South America, where they usually grow in coastal, humid, semi-shaded, and cool regions. This means they have adapted to extreme weather conditions. So, if you want to plant fuchsias in your garden, you should focus on those winter-hardy species, often called hardy or outdoor fuchsias.

The beautiful interplay of corolla and calyx petals is common to most fuchsia species. Often, both types of petals are differently colored, which makes the flower especially attractive.

Winter-hardy perennials include the delicately pink/white hardy fuchsia ‘Annabel,’ the white/blue ‘Blue Sarah,’ and the pink/white Fuchsia magellanica ‘Madame Cornelissen.’

Just like in their native habitat, fuchsias thrive best when they are protected from heat and strong midday sun as well as from extreme winds. They love high humidity and frequent rain, or alternatively, regular misting with low-calcium water. Make sure the location is still bright and airy to protect the plants from fungal infections.

Fuchsias should be fertilized very moderately but regularly to keep them healthy and beautiful. Horn meal is ideal and should be lightly incorporated into the soil surface. The last fertilization should take place at the end of August so the plants can prepare for the upcoming winter in time.

You create ideal growing conditions for your fuchsias by providing them with a loose, humus-rich soil, which can be mixed with some sand. If you like, you can also add expanded clay (hydroton) into the planting hole to improve the conditions for the plants. Otherwise, it is advisable to loosen the soil regularly. Plant your fuchsias best just after the ice saints (mid-May), so they will no longer be surprised by frost and can develop optimally until the next winter.