Tree fuchsia (Fuchsia excorticata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Tree fuchsia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Onagraceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Tree fuchsia
Fuchsia excorticata, also known as Tree Fuchsia or Kotukutuku, is a small tree or shrub native to New Zealand, unique for its distinctive peeling bark. Its small, tubular flowers, initially green, mature to red or purple, followed by edible berries. It is ideal for native gardens, woodland edges, or as a striking specimen plant in temperate climates.
Native range
New Zealand
Care tips
It prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, especially in warmer climates, and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly to keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Use an organic-rich and slightly acidic potting mix. A common mistake is exposing it to full sun without acclimatization, which can scorch its leaves.
How to save a dying Tree fuchsia
- Warning signs
- Drooping, wilting, or yellowing leaves; no blooms or weak shoots. The tree fuchsia is sensitive to water stress.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate soil and reduce watering. Move to partial shade.
- What kills it
- Extreme over/under-watering, intense direct sun, frost, or poor, undrained soil. It dislikes dry heat.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Proper watering or relocating to a better spot often revives it. Prune dead branches.