Cape Fuchsia (Phygelius) 'Candy Drops Cream'

Where to Plant:

This compact Cape Fuchsia produces elegant, nodding, tubular flowers of a beautiful creamy-white colour all through the summer. Being of South African origin, it demands a warm, sheltered position in full sun to thrive and flower well. The ideal spot is against a sunny, south or west-facing wall which will provide warmth and protection from cold winds. It prefers a fertile soil that is moist but well-drained. It is also excellent for growing in large containers.

How to Plant:

Plant pot-grown specimens in spring or summer. Dig a hole and enrich the soil with some well-rotted compost or manure. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring it is at the same depth as it was in its pot, and backfill with the improved soil. Firm it in gently and water well to settle the roots. If planting in a container, use a good quality, loam-based compost.

Aftercare:

Water regularly during dry spells in the summer, especially if grown in a pot. Deadheading the faded flower stalks will encourage the plant to produce more blooms and extend the flowering season into autumn. In milder areas, the woody stems can be left over winter. In most of the UK, it is best treated as a perennial and cut back hard to about 15cm from the ground in the spring, after all risk of frost has passed. An autumn mulch of bark or compost will help protect the roots over winter.