Fuchsia magellanica var. gracilis 'Aurea'
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GOLDEN FUCHSIA
Family: Onagraceae
Pronounced: FEWK-see-ah mah-geh-LAN-ih-kuh meh-geh-LAN-ih-kuh
Geographic Origin
Garden.
Plant Group
Sub shrub.
Attributes
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Hardiness
Sunset zones: 3b-9, 14-24.
USDA zones: 7-10.
Mature size
Height: 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
Width: 3 feet (90 cm).
Flowering period
Summer until first frost.
Flowering attributes
Two-inch, nodding flowers of red sepals and purple corollas.
Leaf attributes
Two-inch long, golden leaves on red stems.
Culture
Light
Partial shade to full sun.
Soil
Fertile, moist, well-drained soil.
Feeding
Side dress with compost or manure. Fertilize monthly, spring through early summer with a Heavy feeders, so fertilize monthly with a complete organic fertilizer, from spring through July.
Miscellaneous
Propagation Methods
Softwood cuttings in spring.. | Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer.
Pruning Methods
When buds begin to swell in spring, cut back dead stems as necessary.
Rainy Side Notes
In hot summer climates, the recommendation is to grow fuchsias in partial shade. Here in the mild Pacific Northwest, we want to grow Fuchsia ‘Aurea’ in full sun to help retain the golden foliage. In shade, the leaves tend to lose the golden color and grow greener. In our climate, we don’t have to worry about scorched leaves.
Golden leaves on striking red stems are reason enough to grow it. The flowers are a bonus; however, with such handsome foliage I would grow it even if it did not blossom. Fuchsia 'Aurea' has a lax habit, so I planted mine on top of a rock wall. It drapes down over the dark basalt rock, which is a pleasant contrast to the golden leaves. Behind the fuchsia grows a dark Phormium tenax and Hebe ‘Paula’. All three makes a pleasing combination.
This plant is a hummingbird magnet and blooms from May until first frost; a hummingbird paradise.
Debra Teashon |
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