Contents
Description
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes is a beautiful plant with a unique bell-shaped flower that is native to South America. It is a hybrid of Fuchsia magellanica and Fuchsia denticulata that was developed in the UK in the 1950s. This plant grows up to 3-4 feet tall and produces clusters of pink and purple flowers that bloom throughout the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Fuchsia |
Appearance
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes has a bushy and upright growth habit with a spread of 2-3 feet. Its leaves are small and ovate, with a dark green color and a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are pendulous, bell-shaped, and can grow up to 2 inches long. They have a vibrant pink and purple color with a dark red corolla.
Care Guide
Water
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes requires consistent moisture, but not waterlogging. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and make sure the pot has good drainage.
Fertilization
Feed Fuchsia Westminster Chimes with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a fertilizer with a higher potassium content to encourage blooming.
Soil
Plant Fuchsia Westminster Chimes in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5-6.5 is ideal.
Sunlight
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes prefers partial shade to full sun, but avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes is hardy to USDA Zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by botrytis, powdery mildew, and rust. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help prevent pest infestations. Fungicides can be used to control fungal diseases.
Habitat
Fuchsia Westminster Chimes is native to South America, where it grows in the understory of forests and along stream banks. It prefers a cool and moist environment, with dappled sunlight and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fuchsia Westminster Chimes be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Fuchsia Westminster Chimes can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough light and consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I prune Fuchsia Westminster Chimes?
A: Prune Fuchsia Westminster Chimes in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Fuchsia Westminster Chimes?
A: Fuchsia Westminster Chimes can be propagated by stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the tips of healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and place in moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.
Q: How long does Fuchsia Westminster Chimes bloom?
A: Fuchsia Westminster Chimes blooms from summer to fall, with each flower lasting for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Fuchsia magellanica
- Fuchsia denticulata
- Fuchsia triphylla
- Fuchsia boliviana
References
- “Fuchsia ‘Westminster Chimes’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=269305&isprofile=0&basic=westminster%20chimes.
- “Fuchsia Westminster Chimes.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/39811/i-Fuchsia-i-Westminster-Chimes/Details.
- “Fuchsia Westminster Chimes.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/fuchsia-westminster-chimes.
