Phygelius x rectus CHERRY RIPE ('Blacher' PPAF)

Common Name: Fuchsia-Cape

New to our lineup this year is a genera of woody perennials which are in the same family as Penstemon (Scrophulariaceae) but have a more exotic look about them. They make excellent specimens in large containers and make a fantastic addition to fresh bouquets.

Cherry Ripe has overwintered in our trial gardens (zone 5b, sandy soil, with no extra protection) for the past two winters despite its original designation as a zone 7 perennial. We have been very impressed with its long panicles of cherry red, tubular, pendulous flowers which appear from mid through late summer.

The foliage forms an upright, bushy mound during the growing season and then goes completely dormant in winter in our cooler climate. In warmer climates, this plant is semi-evergreen.

P. x rectus is a hybrid between P. aequalis and P. capensis. It is an exotic cousin of the common fuchsia.

Height:

20.0 Inches

Spread:

12.0-18.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

6,7,8,9,10

Flower Color:

Red shades

Foliage Color:

Green shades

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Average Water Needs Consistent Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Midsummer Late Summer

Attracts Wings:

Attracts Butterflies Attracts Hummingbirds

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Patio Container Eclectic

Other Features:

Border Plant Container Cut Flower Cut Foliage Mass Planting Specimen Focal Point

Origin:

Not Native to North America

Phygelius is commonly grown along the west coast of the US where temperatures are cool and mild. It dislikes high heat and humidity if enough moisture is not provided. Plant it against a wall or other protective backdrop to give it extra protection from wind and cold. Grow this plant in full sun and fertile, average to moist, well-drained soil. In warmer zones, this woody perennial is semi-evergreen. In cooler zones, the foliage will die back to ground level in winter but will grow up again from the root stock in spring. If a shorter, more compact habit is desired, pinch back the foliage occasionally throughout the growing season. This plant makes an excellent container specimen that can be overwintered on a cool porch or in a garage.

Characteristics