About Fuchsia triphylla L.
Fuchsia triphylla L. is a species of small shrub that grows to heights between two and three feet. Its leaves are simple, elliptical, and quite large; leaf petiole insertion is whorled, and the underside of the leaves has a red or maroon tint. The flowers of Fuchsia triphylla are long and tubular, typically red-orange or red-purple, and usually droop, with stamens that extend out from the flower tip. This species produces large quantities of both flowers and seeds for reproduction. Its attractive flowers draw many different organisms, most notably hummingbirds, that carry pollen between flowers to enable germination. Fuchsia triphylla L. is a popular cultivated species, grown mainly for ornamental purposes. While the plant can survive in a fairly wide range of environments, its ideal growing conditions match those of its native location. Ideal temperatures are just below 80 °F (27 °C) during the day, and just over 60 °F (16 °C) at night. The plant grows best when not overly exposed to direct sunlight, and thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 6 and 7. These conditions match those of the mountainous regions where the species is most commonly found growing in the wild. Fuchsia triphylla is a good choice for garden planting because it rarely develops pests or diseases; the most common pest that affects this species is whitefly.
