Fuchsia 'Red Spider' is a striking variety known for its dramatic, elongated flowers. It features deep red sepals that gracefully extend outward, resembling spider legs, while the corolla is a rich, velvety red. This unique bloom shape makes 'Red Spider' stand out in any garden setting. With its vigorous growth and trailing habit, it is an excellent choice for hanging baskets, patio containers, or cascading over garden edges. Blooming from late spring until the first frost, this fuchsia adds a bold splash of color and attracts hummingbirds and pollinators.
Fuchsia 'Red Spider'
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Light: Prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but strong afternoon sun may cause stress or leaf burn.
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Soil: Thrives in well-draining, rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amending with compost or organic matter improves moisture retention and aeration.
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Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, particularly in warm weather and when grown in containers.
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Temperature: Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50-70°F or 10-21°C). It is not frost-hardy, so in colder climates, overwinter indoors or provide frost protection. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
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Fertilizing: Feed every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage continuous blooms and healthy foliage. Reduce feeding in late fall and winter.
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Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms. Light pruning maintains shape throughout the season, while a more significant trim in early spring promotes fresh, bushy growth.
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Pests and Diseases: Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis.
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Propagation: Easily propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or summer. Keep cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium with high humidity until roots develop.
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