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Description
The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is a hybrid that was created by Peter Bayliss in 1980, and it is a cross between Fuchsia splendens and Fuchsia magellanica. The plant is named after the University of Reading’s Whiteknights Park where Bayliss worked at the time.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Fuchsia |
Appearance
The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide, and it has an upright habit. The leaves are dark green, ovate-shaped, and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are large, single, and pendulous. They are white with pinkish-red veins and sepals, and they bloom from late spring to fall.
Care Guide
The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl is susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Whiteflies: These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Crown gall: This bacterial disease causes swollen and distorted stems. Remove infected plants and sterilize the soil to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Gray mold: This fungal disease causes grayish-brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
The Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl is a garden plant that is commonly grown for its ornamental value. It prefers a cool, moist climate and is native to South America.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl?
A: Water the plant regularly, and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In hot weather, you may need to water it more frequently.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for the Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How do I control spider mites on my Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl?
A: Use insecticidal soap to control spider mites. Spray the plant thoroughly, paying special attention to the undersides of the leaves where the mites like to feed.
Q: Can I grow the Fuchsia Whiteknights Pearl indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant indoors, but it requires bright, indirect light and high humidity. Mist the leaves regularly and provide good air circulation.
Related Plants
- Fuchsia magellanica
- Fuchsia splendens
- Fuchsia boliviana
- Fuchsia regia
References
- “Fuchsia ‘Whiteknights Pearl’.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/90085/Fuchsia-Whiteknights-Pearl/Details. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Fuchsia ‘Whiteknights Pearl’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b279. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Fuchsia ‘Whiteknights Pearl’.” Gardenia, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/fuchsia-whiteknights-pearl. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
