Cape figwort 'Moonraker' Phygelius × rectus 'Moonraker'

Water

Cape Fuchsia should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water once a week, providing approximately one to two gallons per plant each time, depending on the size of the plant and the climate conditions. In hotter, dryer periods, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler or rainy conditions, you should reduce the frequency. Make sure the soil dries out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot, especially when grown in containers. Use a watering can or hose to water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Light

Cape Fuchsia thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot might be a garden bed that gets morning sunlight and dappled to partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates. However, in cooler climates, they can handle full sun throughout the day. The intensity of the light can impact the blooming and growth, with more light yielding more vibrant flowers.

Temperature

Cape Fuchsia performs best in temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can survive down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or moved indoors if temperatures threaten to drop to freezing. Conversely, if the temperature rises above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant may need shade or additional water to cope with the heat.

Pruning

Prune Cape Fuchsia to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and enhance flowering. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the previous year's growth by about one third to one half to stimulate new shoots. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will also promote continuous blooming throughout the season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker' thrives best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand is ideal for ensuring proper drainage and aeration.

Repotting

Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker' typically requires repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Spring is the best time for repotting this plant.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to average home humidity conditions. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60% for optimal health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, moderate watering, and good airflow for indoor Cape Fuchsia.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun, protect from extreme cold, ensure soil is well-drained.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Phygelius × rectus 'Moonraker', commonly known as Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker', begins with seed germination, which requires a warm environment and occurs after the last frost of spring. Following germination, seedlings develop, prioritizing root growth and the emergence of the first leaves. As the Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker' enters its vegetative growth phase, it forms clumps with numerous stems and large, lance-shaped leaves, thriving in full sun to partial shade. The reproductive stage is marked by the production of tubular, yellow-colored flowers throughout the summer, which attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees. After pollination, the plant sets seed within elongated capsules, concluding its annual growth cycle, though it is perennial in nature, often dying back in colder climates and regrowing from the base in spring. With proper care, including pruning and deadheading, Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker' can survive for several years, going through multiple cycles of growth and reproduction.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: For the Cape Fuchsia 'Moonraker', the most popular method of propagation is by softwood cuttings. This typically takes place in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, select healthy, non-flowering shoots and cut a 3-4 inch (about 7.5-10 cm) length, making sure each cutting has at least two sets of leaves. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a moist, well-draining potting mix and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place in a warm location with indirect sunlight until roots have developed, which usually takes a couple of weeks, after which the new plants can be potted on or moved to their final location.