An interesting plant with subtle bicolored flowers. It blooms freely over a long time, until frost, and thrives in warm, sheltered parts of the garden. Fuchsia winters in the ground, but it requires frost protection. It can also be grown in containers on the terrace or balcony.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE: A low-growing shrub with highly attractive, overhanging, bicolored (crimson-purple) flowers; blooms freely for a long time, from VII to X; elongated flowers (up to 3 cm), single with prominent stamens; small, light green leaves with purple venation. Long, supple shoots, with overhanging ends.

HOW IT GROWS: The shrub reaches 1-1.2 m height and 1 m width. It blooms on new shoots. It may be grown as a perennial.

WHERE TO PLANT: The plant requires a sunny or semi-shaded location, sheltered from the wind. The soil should be fertile, rich in humus and well-drained, slightly acidic or neutral. The preferred ground is humid but well-drained. Fuchsia requires winter protection. Hardiness: zone 7-8.

HOW TO PLANT AND GROW: Place the shrub in a 30 x 30 x 30 cm pit, on top of a 10-cm layer of well-rotten manure or compost soil. Fill the pit with fertile soil. In autumn it is necessary to protect plants against frost with about 15 cm thick layer of bark. It is important to cut back in early spring all shoots that froze during winter.

HOW TO APPLY: It is suitable for home gardens, combined with other perennials. It is a prominent feature due to the vivid coloring of the bloom and abundant flowering. It is perfect for growing in containers on the terrace or balcony.

ORIGIN: Great Britain (Scotland, Riccarton); it was first documented in 1833 by John Young.

PRIZES: Great Britain, Award of Garden Merit.