Cape Fuchsia
phygelius capensis
Also known as: ["Cape Fuchsia","South African Fuchsia"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub native to South Africa, known for its tubular, fuchsia-like flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Phygelius |
| Botanical Name: | Phygelius capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or containers in temperate gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for raised beds or containers.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth annually.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates brief frosts but prefers frost-free conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth; deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; deadhead spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; roots are vulnerable to freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers or move containers indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower bud abortion in extreme heat; may cease flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring-summer; avoid feeding in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhygelius capensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhygelius capensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhygelius capensis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Phygelius capensis?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season.
Q: Does Phygelius capensis require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but prefers protection from intense afternoon sun in hot climates.
Q: Can Phygelius capensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided the pot has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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