The Cape Fuchsia
Phygelius are native to South Africa, found along the Cape Province and Eastern Cape. The species thrives in subtropical and temperate regions. commonly called the Cape Fuchsia.
These are plants that need a little space in the garden, they are tall growers, to over 1m, and do spread slowly from suckers.
We have been growing them for over 10 years and every year or two we do reduce the clump back to size, a fairly easy task.
As we do not get frost, although we do have cool to cold winters they never die back and only require an annual pruning to keep in shape.
Phygelius flowers emit a mild, sweet fragrance, the flowers also attract, bees, nectar seeking birds and pollinators to the garden.
How To grow Phygelius – Basic Care
The two species Phygelius aequalis or ‘Yellow Trumpet’ and Phygelius capensis with its dusky pink flowers are treated the same way.
These are an evergreen perennial suitable for sun or semi shade.
Because of their height both species can look great at the rear of the border. Frosts are a problem, however plants can be cut back and will reshoot. A well drained humus rich soil is best.
Choose Location: Select a sunny or partly shaded area with well-drained soil. It should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Weed: Remove weeds to eliminate root competition and provide an attrcative planting.
- Soil Preparation: Dig in organic matter like compost or aged cow manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Spacing: Space plants 1–2 feet apart to allow room for growth and air circulation.
- Watering: Water well after planting, ensuring that the soil settles around the roots.
- Mulch: Add a layer of mulch around the plant base to retain moisture and keep roots cool, but avoid direct contact with the stem.
Light Requirements
- Sun Exposure: Full sun is ideal, but Phygelius will tolerate light shade, and protection from very hot afternoon sun is recommended especially in very hot dry climate zones.
- Best Location: An area with 6 hours of direct sunlight daily provides the best growth and flower production.
Temperature and Humidity
- Ideal Temperature Range: Prefers mild temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
- Cold Sensitivity: Sensitive to frost, so protect from freezing conditions during winter. Some varieties may be hardy to zone 7, while others need to be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
- Humidity: Tolerates moderate humidity but prefers dry conditions in winter.
Fertiliser
- Feeding: Use an organic slow release type fertiliser in spring when you renew mulch. In poor soils you could also apply a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season to improve growth and blooming.
- Frequency: Fertilize once a month during spring and summer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
- Organic Options: Compost or well-rotted manure works well as a natural fertilizer.
How To Prune Phygelius
- When TonPrune: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased growth. In early spring, trim back the plant by about one-third to encourage new growth.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent seed production, which diverts energy away from flowering.
- Cutting Back: In colder climate zones, cut back the plant to the ground after the first frost to protect the root system.
Propagation and Varieties
Take cuttings in summer. Cultivars include P. Raspberry Swirl, P. ‘Moonraker’, Phygelius x rectus ‘African Queen’ and P. ‘Salmon Leap’.
Phygelius plants and species are available for sale form the following nurseries
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
