Fuchsia procumbens
F. procumbens, also known as creeping fuchsia, is a unique ground cover native to New Zealand. It is notable for its yellow flowers and red berries. native trees
Image credit: Wikipedia
Scientific Name | Fuchsia procumbens |
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Height | 5–15 cm (2–6 in) tall |
Spread | Up to 1 m (3 ft) wide, mat-forming |
Water Needs | Moderate; prefers moist, well-drained soil |
Light | Partial to full shade; avoid hot afternoon sun |
Frost Tolerance | Low to moderate; protect from severe frost |
Salt Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates some coastal exposure |
Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
Lifespan | Perennial; long-lived in suitable conditions |
Creeping Fuchsia is native to coastal areas of the northern North Island of New Zealand. It naturally occurs in sandy soils near tide lines in mild, temperate climates with moderate rainfall. In cultivation, it prefers cool, moist conditions with protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds.
City | Suitability |
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Whangārei | Ideal |
Auckland | Ideal |
Hamilton | Ideal |
Tauranga | Ideal |
Rotorua | Ideal |
Gisborne | Moderate |
New Plymouth | Ideal |
Napier | Moderate |
Whanganui | Moderate |
Palmerston North | Moderate |
Wellington | Moderate |
Nelson | Moderate |
Christchurch | Challenging |
Dunedin | Challenging |
Invercargill | Challenging |
Creeping Fuchsia prefers:
This shade-loving ground cover prefers:
Consistent moisture is important:
Creeping Fuchsia prefers mild conditions:
Prune Fuchsia procumbens lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering and berry production.
The most reliable method:
For genetic diversity:
For established plants:
Takes advantage of natural growth habit:
Creeping Fuchsia has a unique place in New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage:
Today, Creeping Fuchsia is valued both for its ecological role and as an ornamental plant. Its unusual upward-facing flowers and prostrate growth habit make it popular for rock gardens, hanging baskets, and as a ground cover. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and cultivation for restoration projects. It has been categorized as "At risk – naturally uncommon" in New Zealand's threatened plant list, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Creeping Fuchsia is generally resilient to pests and diseases when grown in appropriate conditions. Most issues can be prevented by providing good drainage, appropriate light levels, and consistent moisture without overwatering. Regular monitoring will help catch any problems early.
Create a stunning hanging basket display with Creeping Fuchsia by planting it in a shallow, wide basket where its trailing stems can cascade over the edges. For the best effect, position the basket where you can view the flowers from below, as they face upward unlike most fuchsias. Combine with small native ferns like Asplenium flabellifolium (Necklace Fern) for textural contrast. Water consistently but allow the top centimeter of soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. In autumn, the bright red berries add another season of interest to this unique display. This arrangement works beautifully in a sheltered porch or under the canopy of a tree where the plant receives filtered light.