By Tamara Galbraith

Fuchsias have long been a favorite with our friends across the Big Pond in the U.K., but hardier versions are starting to attract some attention now in the U.S.

Saying "hardier" is a little deceptive, however; even the most robust fuchsias only survive outdoors year-round to USDA Zone 7 at the northernmost. In the colder parts of the U.S., fuchsias may be grown as annuals or dug up and overwintered indoors or in the greenhouse.
On the flipside, most fuchsias can survive warm climates, if you're not bothered by the sight of them wilting slightly on a hot day. Adequate humidity is the key - which, incidentally, is why they do so well in jolly old England. If you keep your fuchsias in a hanging basket, be sure to water often. Some shade is advisable.

When grown in hanging baskets, the dangling flowers of fuchsia make a lovely display. The double corolla varieties especially will remind you of the stiff, fluffy skirts of a lady square dancer.