Cape Fuchsia
phygelius aequalis
Also known as: ["Cape Fuchsia","Cape Foxglove"]
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 aequalis |
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":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; suitable for raised beds or containers.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering in late summer; light pruning can be done in spring to remove dead or damaged stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
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 full sun; protect from intense afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate container plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
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.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if drainage is poor; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late fall to prepare for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching; trim after flowering to shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
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; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; apply until water drains from the bottom; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring to fall), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can be fatal.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; mulch heavily around the base.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhygelius aequalis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant when ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicPhygelius aequalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant when ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicPhygelius aequalis, commonly known as Cape Fuchsia, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Phygelius aequalis?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Cape Fuchsia 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 aequalis 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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