Fuchsia

fu'shl-a, a tropical plant belonging to the evening primrose family. There are thirty species, chiefly native in Mexico, Chile, and Peru. Some of the species are small shrubs; one in New Zealand is a tree twenty feet high; but our house plants are usually herbs. Fuchsias are easily grown from cuttings. Gardeners recommend two joints, one to be thrust underground for rooting, the other to stand above ground for branching. Spring cuttings make winter flowers. They should be left in pots out of doors as late as possible, and when brought in should have good light and plenty of water, but should be screened from bright sunshine. The fuchsia was named for Leonard Fuchs, a Bavarian botanist connected with the University of Tubingen, 1501-1566. The fuchsia is known also as lady's eardrop. It is too delicate for outdoor growth, but it is a favorite conservatory and window plant. The foliage is attractive. The flowers hang singly, one from the axil of each leaf, or else from the tips of the branches. The calyx is composed of four long, brightly colored sepals, purple, rose, or white. The corolla is composed of four longer, usually darker petals. The stamens and style hang lower yet. They also are gayly colored, giving to the entire flower a beautifully rich, attractive appearance.