Cape Fuchsia (Phygelius)

Cape fuchsia, also called Cape figwort, is the common name used for plants in the genus Phygelius. The genus includes two wild species and many garden selections, including hybrids, so flower color, mature size, persistence, and spreading behavior vary; this profile describes the group without assigning one species’ measurements to all members. [Brooklyn Botanic Garden](https://www.bbg.org/article/cape_fuchsias) and the [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12838/phygelius-capensis/details) provide useful genus-level context. ## Appearance and garden use Phygelius plants are South African shrubs or herbaceous perennials, depending on climate. They carry tubular flowers in clusters over a long summer-to-fall season. The flowers can attract hummingbirds, and the common name refers to flower shape rather than a close botanical relationship to true fuchsias. Some wild plants spread by underground runners, while selected hybrids may have a more restrained habit. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny to partly shaded position with fertile, well-drained soil. Keep plants watered during dry weather, while avoiding waterlogged winter soil. Cold tolerance and evergreen behavior depend on the species, selection, and local winter conditions; provide protection in colder areas when needed. ## Maintenance Remove spent flowers to encourage continued display. In colder gardens, leave old stems in place through winter for protection, then cut back in late spring as growth resumes. Check the identity of a particular cultivar before applying size or spread expectations, because those traits are not uniform across the genus.