California fuchsia 'Western Hills' Epilobium canum 'Western Hills' (Z)

Water

The California Fuchsia should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic its natural dry habitat conditions. Establishing plants need more frequent watering, about once a week, but once established, watering can be reduced. During the peak of summer, water the plant every two to three weeks with about 1-2 gallons per plant, decreasing to once a month or less during cooler months. Ensure the soil is allowed to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. Drought-tolerant once established, the California Fuchsia can survive on less water, but for optimal blooming, consistent watering is beneficial.

Light

California Fuchsia thrives best in full sun conditions, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade can also be suitable, especially in hotter climates. Ensure the plant is not shaded by larger plants or buildings, as ample sunlight encourages the most vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Temperature

California Fuchsia prefers a temperature range between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many temperate climates. Avoid exposure to extreme cold or frost, as this can damage the plant.

Pruning

Prune California Fuchsia to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and improve air circulation. The best time to prune is in late fall or early winter, after flowering has completed. Cut back the plant by about one-third to one-half every year to promote new growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Remove any dead or dying stems throughout the year as needed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

California Fuchsia, Epilobium canum 'Western Hills', thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of sand, loam, and organic compost. For best results, maintain soil pH between 6.0 and 8.0.

Repotting

California Fuchsia is a hardy perennial that does not require frequent repotting. Repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient, ensuring not to disturb the roots too much.

Humidity & Misting

California Fuchsia prefers low to moderate humidity levels and is well adapted to dry conditions, making it ideal for regions with arid climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, well-draining soil, infrequent water.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, minimal water, protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

California fuchsia 'Western Hills' begins its life as a seed that germinates in late winter to early spring, depending on the climate. Once the seedling emerges and establishes its first true leaves, it enters a period of vegetative growth, developing a leafy structure and a robust root system throughout spring and early summer. In late summer to fall, the plant enters its flowering stage, producing vivid red to orange tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit which are capsules containing numerous tiny seeds, completing the reproductive stage. As winter approaches, California fuchsia 'Western Hills' may die back, with the above-ground parts of the plant becoming dormant or dying off in colder climates, while the root system remains alive. With the return of favorable conditions in spring, the plant emerges from dormancy, completing the cycle as it grows back from its rootstock or self-sows from fallen seeds.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The California fuchsia, botanically known as Epilobium canum 'Western Hills', is most commonly propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, a gardener would cut a piece of the stem about 4-6 inches long, making sure it includes at least one set of leaves. The bottom end of the cutting is usually dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development and then inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in indirect light until roots have developed, which takes about 3-4 weeks. After rooting is confirmed, the new California fuchsia plant can be transplanted into the garden.