Fuchsia, Hardy Fuchsia, Ladies' eardrops
Fuchsia magellanica
Family: Onagraceae
What it is like
A shrub 1.5-3 m high. It is spreading and the branches are slender. The stems arch over. The bark is papery. The leaves are sword shaped and pointed. They are usually in rings of three. They are 2-4 cm long and have fine teeth around the edge. The flowers are small and crimson. They are 4-5 cm long. They hang down. The sepals are red and the petals are purple. The style and stamens protrude beyond the petals. The flowers are somewhat fleshy. Their stalks are slender. The fruit are purple-black. They are 2.5 cm long.
There are about 100 Fuchsia species. It can be invasive.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It can tolerate light frosts. It will grow in almost any soil type. It grows up to 2,000 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 7-10. Tasmania Herbarium. Arboretum Tasmania. Hobart Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Britain, Chile (country/location of origin), Colombia, East Africa, Europe, Falklands, Hawaii, Indonesia, Ireland, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pacific, Peru, Reunion, SE Asia, South America (country/location of origin), Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten raw. They are also used for marmalade and juice.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Anting balerina, Chilco, Chillko, Earring flower, Kulapepeiao, Pan-swe-le