Trailing Fuchsia, Creeping Fuchsia, Miniature Fuchsia
Fuchsia procumbens
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The berries are edible, though not particularly flavorful, and can be used in jams or jellies. The plant itself is primarily used as an ornamental groundcover, especially in hanging baskets and rock gardens. Its prostrate habit makes it useful for erosion control on slopes. It attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators, benefiting the garden ecosystem.
Permapeople description
Fuchsia procumbens is a prostrate shrub native to coastal northern New Zealand. It has small, rounded leaves and tiny, upright flowers that are followed by bright red berries. It is often used as a groundcover or in hanging baskets.
Botanical description
Fuchsia procumbens is a prostrate, evergreen shrub native to coastal northern New Zealand. It features small, rounded leaves, typically 5-10 mm long. The flowers are unusual for a fuchsia, lacking petals and having prominent orange-red sepals and blue-purple stamens. The fruits are bright red, oblong berries, about 1 cm long. It is a slow-growing plant, reaching a height of only 5-10 cm but spreading up to 50 cm. It thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade.
Companion planting
As a groundcover, Fuchsia procumbens can be planted around taller plants that prefer similar conditions (partial shade, well-drained soil). Avoid planting near aggressive, competitive species that may outcompete it for resources. Its presence can benefit plants by attracting pollinators.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically done through cuttings taken in spring or summer. Seed propagation is also possible, though the seeds may require stratification for optimal germination. Division of established plants can also be successful.
History and traditions
While not widely used in traditional medicine or cuisine, Fuchsia procumbens has been cultivated as an ornamental plant since its discovery in the late 19th century. It is valued for its unique appearance and ability to thrive in containers. Maori people in New Zealand did not traditionally use this particular Fuchsia species in their practices as much as other native plants.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs mainly in summer and autumn (June-October in the Northern Hemisphere). Berries ripen from late summer through winter. Cuttings can be taken in spring or summer. Planting is best done in spring or autumn.