Scarlet fuchsia

Fuchsia coccinea

Physical Characteristics

Fuchsia coccinea is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; East Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[K]. A juicy berry with small seeds that can be swallowed, it has a sweet and very pleasant flavour with no hint of any unpleasant aftertaste[K]. It is one of our favourite fuchsia fruits[K]. The ellipsoid fruit can be up to 17mm long[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known