Tender fuchsias

Most tender fuchsias have ballerina-like flowers with flaring outer petals, which can be single or double. Triphylla types have long, tapering tubular bells in shades of coral-orange to red. The flowers are produced in clusters among waxy green to velvety-bronze leaves.

These fuchsias grow in any well-drained soil in sun or light shade. Triphylla types need full sun. In containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost with added grit to improve drainage.

These fuchsia can't withstand frost, so need the protection of a frost-free greenhouse or windowsill over winter. They will not do well in excessively dry or wet potting compost and will not flower in deep shade.

Although these plants cannot survive frosts, most can be kept in a cool, frost-free place over winter for re-use the following summer. Triphylla types are best overwintered in warmer conditions (min 5-7°C/40-45°F).