Fuchsias are a staple of British gardens, these shrubby plants are found everywhere. Grown for their bright flowers and hardiness for those cold British winters. The first written description of a Fuchsia comes from 1690 by the French monk Minim after he discovered them on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. There are over 100 different types of Fuchsia, most of them originating from South America. With a little care and attention, they can look good year after year in UK gardens.
Are Fuchsia’s Perennial?
Yes, Fuchsias are a perennial that if well cared for will come back year after year. There are hardy varieties that can be left outside all winter. Half-hardy types that may need to be moved or protected depending on the severity of the winter. And non-hardy varieties which will definitely need to be dug up and moved over winter.
Fuchsia plants will shed their leaves over winter, well most varieties will anyway. They then tend to go dormant over the winter before bouncing back into life over spring.
How to get the best out of your Fuchsia
Pruning the plants down to the base is a great way of promoting strong new flowering growth. It is important however that you do not prune them in winter but instead wait for spring to arrive. pruning in winter can allow pests and disease to really take a toll of your Fuchsia plants, potentially killing them off completely.