Cape fuchsia (Phygelius aequalis 'Crocorpri' CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS)

Overview

Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS, commonly known as Cape fuchsia, is cherished for its long season of vibrant, trumpet-shaped blossoms. Developed as part of the Croftway Series, this cultivar offers a compact habit and intense color, far surpassing the species’ typical appearance. Its pendant coral-pink flowers attract attention throughout the summer months, making it a dynamic focal point where reliably hardy.

This woody-based sub-shrub is highly versatile, behaving differently based on climate—from semi-evergreen in mild areas (Zones 8-9) to a dependable herbaceous perennial in Zone 7. The vigorous nature of Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS ensures a consistent display, though gardeners should be mindful of its suckering habit if space is a concern.

For gardeners seeking continuous summer color that bridges the gap between typical fuchsias and traditional perennials, the Cape fuchsia is an excellent choice. It thrives best where it receives afternoon shade in the hottest climates while demanding plenty of sun elsewhere for peak performance.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 2-3 ft
  • Spread: 1.5-2 ft
• Bloom Time: June to September
• Bloom Description: Coral pink
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

For optimal establishment, plant Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS where it receives full sun, though part shade is beneficial during intense afternoon heat, especially in warmer zones. The ideal soil should be moist, organically rich, and crucially, well-drained. This species performs exceptionally well in Mediterranean-type climates, such as the West Coast, but struggles in the high heat and humidity often found in the Deep South.

Water needs are medium; maintain consistently moist soil, particularly during dry spells, but ensure drainage capacity is high to prevent root issues. Routine maintenance involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage a longer, more prolific blooming cycle that stretches from June into September. Be aware that this is a suckering subshrub; periodic pruning or root restriction may be necessary to keep it within bounds.

Managing winter protection is key if growing near the lower limit of its hardiness range (Zone 7). In these cooler areas, treat it as an herbaceous perennial, cutting back stems in spring. If attempting cultivation in Zone 6a locations, site the Cape fuchsia in a protected microclimate and apply a heavy layer of mulch for insulation.

Landscape Uses

The primary role for Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS is providing vertical interest and long-lasting color in sunny borders. Its moderate size allows it to fit snugly between shorter groundcovers and taller background shrubs without overwhelming the space. Given its continuous bloom, it serves as an excellent mid-border perennial, ensuring color when many spring bloomers have faded.

This plant also excels in containers. When grown in pots, it offers a striking display throughout the summer, perfect for patios or entryways. Ensure the container mix is light and drains rapidly. If potted specimens are brought indoors for winter in colder regions, they can be treated as large temporary annuals or overwintered in a cool, bright location.

Because the Croftway Series cultivars are bred for density and vigor, they integrate well into mixed perennial beds where the coral pink flowers contrast nicely with dark green foliage. While the description notes its naturalizing tendency, particularly where low branches root, careful placement keeps this vigorous Cape fuchsia manageable in formal garden settings.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

The Croftway Series of phygelias, which includes Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS, was developed in the UK to offer diverse, long-blooming colors distinct from the wild species. This specific cultivar features a long bloom of coral pink flowers with contrasting pale yellow throats on plants that maintain a compact presence, usually reaching about 30 inches tall. As a woody-based sub-shrub native to South Africa, its showy, pendant, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne in dense pyramidal terminal panicles, making it an exciting textural element in the garden.

Tolerances

• No known serious insect or disease problems.

Potential Problems

While generally robust, the primary concern for gardeners growing Cape fuchsia outside of Zones 8 and 9 is winter hardiness. In cooler northern exposures, such as Zone 7, Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS functions as a herbaceous perennial and may die back to the ground. Gardeners in areas like the St. Louis region (Zone 6a) must site the plant defensively, perhaps against a south-facing wall, and ensure a thick layer of organic mulch is applied before the first deep freeze set in.

Furthermore, this species dislikes excessive heat coupled with high humidity, meaning growth can suffer in the deep American South. If summer conditions are challenging, providing afternoon shade can mitigate stress and help this beautiful Cape fuchsia maintain its vigor until autumn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Cape fuchsia suitable for?

Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 9.

How large does Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS grow?

This cultivar typically reaches a mature height between 2 and 3 feet tall, spreading between 1.5 and 2 feet wide.

When does Cape fuchsia bloom?

This variety provides abundant color in the garden from June all the way through September, showcasing coral pink flowers.

What sun exposure does Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS need?

It prefers a location receiving full sun, but appreciates some light afternoon shade, particularly when grown in the hotter end of its hardiness range.

Conclusion

The consistent, vivid coral-pink display offered by Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS makes it an invaluable addition for summer-long garden structure. This compact Cape fuchsia offers unique flower architecture and exceptional longevity under good conditions. Before planting, confirm your USDA hardiness zone and ensure the soil is well-draining to maximize the blooming potential of this exciting UK introduction.

Companion Planting

When planning borders for your Cape fuchsia, select companions that enjoy similar, moist, well-drained soil conditions and appreciate a bit of afternoon shade in hot climates. Good textural contrasts come from broad-leaved plants like Hostas or Astilbes, provided they are placed where the Phygelius receives dominant morning sun exposure. For complementary flower color, consider pairing the coral pink blooms with deep purple or hot blue flowering salvias or Agastache varieties, which share similar requirements for sun and medium water.

Design Ideas for Containers

Growing Phygelius aequalis ‘Crocorpri’ CROFTWAY CORAL PRINCESS in containers allows for flexibility, especially where winter temperatures dip below Zone 7. Use the Cape fuchsia as a “thriller,” positioning it near the center or slightly off-center to benefit from its vertical trumpet flowers. Surround it with trailing “spillers” like creeping Jenny or sweet potato vine, and perhaps mid-height “fillers” such as trailing petunias or calibrachoa that complement the coral and cream tones found in the throat of the flower.