Gold Bernard · CC BY-SA 3.0
About
The genus *Fuchsia sp* is a diverse group of shrubs and small trees, most of which are native to South America, though species are also found in Central America, New Zealand, and Tahiti. They are highly valued by hobbyists for their decorative, pendulous, teardrop-shaped flowers, which display profusely throughout the year.
Field notes
Morphology
The plants are generally shrubs ranging from 0.2 to 4 meters tall, though some species, like *F. excorticata*, can grow up to 12–15 meters. Leaves are typically opposite or in whorls of three to five, simple, lanceolate, and can be serrated or entire. The flowers feature four long, slender sepals and four shorter, broader petals; colors vary widely from white to dark red, purple-blue, and orange. The fruit is a small berry, ranging from 5–25 mm, and can be dark reddish green, deep red, or deep purple.
Distribution & habitat
The vast majority of species are native to Central and South America, with additional populations found on Hispaniola, in New Zealand, and on Tahiti. Some species, such as *F. magellanica*, extend into the cool temperate zone of Tierra del Fuego.
Ecology
In most species, the flowers are adapted for bird pollination, and the seeds are dispersed by birds. The fruit of *F. splendens* is notable for its flavor, which is reminiscent of citrus and black pepper.
Cultivation notes
Fuchsias are popular garden shrubs that can survive for years with minimal care. Many species, particularly those from sections Quelusia, Encliandra, Skinnera, and Procumbentes, are hardy in temperate areas, including parts of Britain, Ireland, and the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Some hardier species can survive as herbaceous perennials in colder regions.
History & etymology
The genus was first scientifically described by Charles Plumier in 1696–1697 on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, naming the genus after German botanist Leonhart Fuchs. The species are most closely related to the northern hemisphere genus Circaea.
Habitat
- Altitude
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- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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