Common Correa Correa reflexa

Water

To water the Australian Fuchsia, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, this means watering once every week or two, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. Provide about 1 gallon of water for smaller plants, increasing the amount for larger plants, typically not exceeding 3 gallons. During the hotter months, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture first. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure good drainage and avoid allowing the plant to sit in waterlogged soil.

Light

Australian Fuchsia thrives in partial shade to full sun; however, in extremely hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade to protect it from the intense sun. The best spot for the Australian Fuchsia would be a location where it receives morning sun and dappled light throughout the afternoon. The plant is adaptable but will exhibit the most vibrant bloom in a bright, well-lit area without direct, scorching sunlight.

Temperature

Australian Fuchsia prefers moderate temperatures and can survive in a temperature range between 30°F and 85°F. However, the ideal temperature conditions are between 50°F and 75°F, where it can grow and bloom optimally. Extreme temperatures on both the lower and higher ends can stress the plant and should be avoided when possible.

Pruning

Prune the Australian Fuchsia to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired. Pruning is also a good opportunity to promote air circulation within the plant by thinning out dense growth. Pruning should be done annually or as needed to keep the plant looking its best.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Native Fuchsia prefers well-draining, loamy to sandy soil, enriched with organic matter. An ideal soil mix can be created using equal parts of loam, sand, and compost to ensure good drainage and fertility. The best pH range for the soil is slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Native Fuchsias should be repotted every two to three years or when the roots outgrow the current pot. It's best to repot in the spring or early summer, which allows the plant to recover and grow during the active season.

Humidity & Misting

Native Fuchsia thrives in moderate humidity conditions. It is well-suited to outdoor humidity levels in its native environment, so aiming for similar conditions, ideally around 40-60% humidity, is beneficial for indoor cultivation.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from harsh sun, and water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Correa reflexa, commonly known as Common Correa, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in the soil after dispersal. Once germination occurs, it develops a root system and a shoot that emerges from the soil as a seedling. The seedling grows into a juvenile plant with the development of true leaves, and as it matures, it develops into an adult plant with a strong woody stem and a more extensive root system. During its adult phase, Common Correa flowers, typically showing bell-shaped red or greenish-yellow flowers which are pollinated by birds and insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, which are capsules containing seeds that are later dispersed, completing the cycle. This plant is a perennial, meaning it goes through the flowering and seeding stages multiple times throughout its life span.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Propogation: Correa reflexa, commonly known as Native Fuchsia, can be propagated most successfully through semi-hardwood cuttings. The optimal time for this method is late summer to autumn when the plant has mature stems that are not yet lignified. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, including several sets of leaves. The lower leaves must be removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful rooting. These prepared cuttings are then placed in a well-draining propagation mix, ensuring at least one set of leaves remains above the soil. A high humidity environment is maintained, and roots typically form within a few weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted and new growth is evident, they can be transferred to individual pots to grow on before planting out.