Cape fuchsia

Cape fuchsia should be watered once a week, using about 1 cup of water per plant. During the summer months, the plant may need to be watered more frequently, especially if there is a hot and dry spell. During the cooler months, watering may be reduced to once every 2 weeks. When watering, it should be done thoroughly so that the soil is wet throughout the root area, as the plant will not do well with dry soil. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot. In addition to regular waterings, the plant should be fed with a balanced fertilizer about once a month during the summer months to maintain healthy growth.

Cape fuchsia (Phygelius aequalis 'Cropurpri' CROFTWAY PURPLE PRINCE) does best in bright filtered light, such as shade beneath trees or in a partly shaded area. Direct sunlight can be too intense and can result in leaf burn. For optimal growth, this plant species typically needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day, preferably in the morning or late afternoon.

Cape fuchsia should be pruned twice each year, in late spring and again in fall. Pruning in late spring should be done soon after flowering, removing any dead or damaged branches as needed. In late fall, pruning should be done more substantially, with up to 1 third of the plant’s stems removed. Removing some older stems each fall will promote new, vigorous growth during the upcoming season. Foliage should also be trimmed back to 1 third its size for a neat full look. When pruning old stems, cut them to about 1/4 inch above strong, healthy new growth. As with any pruning, remove any dead or diseased branches at any time.