Shrubby fuchsia (Fuchsia paniculata, Gard. Chron. 1856: 301 (1856))

Family: Onagraceae

Author: Lindl.

Bibliography: Gard. Chron. 1856: 301 (1856)

Year: 1856

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Fuchsia

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. Mexico to C. America

Description

The Shrubby Fuchsia, scientifically known as Fuchsia paniculata, is an alluring species within the Onagraceae family. This plant’s captivating appeal, combined with its vibrant blooms, makes it a noteworthy addition to gardens and natural landscapes.

First documented in the Gardener’s Chronicle in 1856 by botanist John Lindley, Fuchsia paniculata originates from Central Mexico to Central America. Its natural distribution across this region suggests that it thrives in diverse climatic conditions, which is reflective of the adaptability often observed in the genus Fuchsia.

The Shrubby Fuchsia is characterized by its robust, shrubby growth habit. Unlike its more delicate counterparts, this species exhibits a more bushy and enduring structure, making it an excellent candidate for hedges or stand-alone specimens in well-tended gardens. The plant’s foliage adds to its ornamental value, with lush, green leaves creating a perfect backdrop for its spectacular floral display.

One of the most enchanting features of Fuchsia paniculata is its inflorescence. The flowers are typically clustered in panicles, contributing to its common name. These blossoms come in an array of pink hues, ranging from light blush to deeper magenta, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees. This not only enhances the biodiversity of any garden but also ensures the plant’s effective reproduction and longevity.

These visual and ecological benefits underline why the Shrubby Fuchsia is a valued specimen among botanists and horticulturists alike. By understanding its origins and growth habits, gardeners can cultivate Fuchsia paniculata to maximize its ornamental and ecological potential. Whether planted in garden beds, borders, or as part of a mixed shrubbery, the Shrubby Fuchsia promises a display of enduring beauty and vibrant life.

For those interested in cultivating this plant, it’s important to simulate its native habitat conditions. This means providing well-drained soil, adequate moisture, and some protection from extreme conditions. By meeting these simple needs, gardeners can enjoy the charm and resilience of Fuchsia paniculata for many seasons.

Overall, the Shrubby Fuchsia holds a special place in botanical and horticultural circles, thanks to its historical significance and enchanting presence in gardens across suitable climates.

Common Names

Eng: shrubby fuchsia
En: Shrubby fuchsia
Es: Achiotillo.

Synonyms

Distribution

• Costa Rica (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• California (introduced)
• Colombia (introduced)
• Hawaii (introduced)
• Sri Lanka (introduced)
• Tanzania (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 27, 2020 by stanislas auber (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 18, 2020 by García Douglas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 29, 2018 by Marta Crespo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 8, 2017 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 2, 2021 by Bernadette Kirsch (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 3, 2022 by Hernández Gabriel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2022 by Schumann Aldana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2022 by Schumann Aldana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2020 by ventilago (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 4, 2021 by Martínez Gabriela (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Mar 4, 2020 by Esther Patterson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 7, 2022 by Ortiz Manuel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 4, 2022 by Michael Huscroft (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 10, 2021 by Gonzalez Adrian (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by allan dimas (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Nov 14, 2022 by Danielle-Rae Hope (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Alex Monro (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Milady Alfaro (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Alex Monro (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (gpl)

Taken Jan 5, 2022 by Esteban Jaramillo (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5938223)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:106252-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Fuchsia paniculata Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub

Growth