Fuchsia procumbens

Fuchsia procumbens is a creeping perennial species. It forms a ground cover with small rounded leaves and astonishing corolla-less flowers that reveal yellow, purple, and blue shades. The flowers bloom in summer before giving way to purple, plum-like fruits, which are enjoyed in jam in their country of origin. This attractive plant is not very hardy, but it can be grown in a pot and brought indoors during winter. In mild regions, it can be planted in the ground, in partial shade, in fertile, well-drained, and moist soil.

Fuchsia procumbens belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is native to New Zealand, where it grows on the northern coastal part of the country. It has a creeping habit, reaching a height of 15cm (6in) and spreading about 40cm (16in). The small, round, green leaves are semi-evergreen. The flower is equally unusual for a fuchsia. The upright, tubular flowers, 1.5cm (1in) long, have a yellow calyx, curved sepals, pink stamens, and blue pollen, creating a small multicoloured marvel to be observed up close. It blooms in summer, from July-August to September.

This fuchsia is a tender perennial that can be grown outdoors in mild climates, where the temperature does not drop below -5°C (23°F). Otherwise, grow it in a pot and bring it indoors for winter. Choose a sheltered location, in partial shade or non-burning sun, in moist, preferably rich and well-drained soil or substrate. The foliage resembles muehlenbeckia. It looks beautiful in hanging baskets or in a container placed where its miniature flowers can be observed, which are sometimes hidden under the foliage. Leave it alone in its pot, but possibly place it among plants with similar needs.

Discovered in Santo Domingo in the 17th century and acclimatised in Europe, it was named Fuchsia (not Fuschia) in honour of a German botanist named Fuchs. Native to South America, botanical fuchsias have gradually multiplied. There are now believed to be tens of thousands of hybrids!