I was given a plant which I was told was a fuscia from the mountains of New Zealand. It had very pretty tiny yellow flowers with blue stamens. I live in the U.K. and was told it was hardy so I foolishly left it out during last winter - I lost it . I would very much like to try again but have no idea what it is called. Can you help me?

Thank you

Chris

Fuchsia Procumbens

This is one of NZ's feature ground covers. It is endemic to coastal regions of Northland and is quite rare in the wild but common in cultivation. It is hardy in all frost free places. The flowers are small but very attractive. The crimson berries are another notable feature.

Unless you've seen the 'withered corpse' don't assume that it's gone after winter. It might just be checking to see if it's safe to emerge!

You could try it in a wide/fairly shallow glazed pot with excellent drainage. (300mmx100mm) It both scrambles, rooting as it goes, and climbs weakly. If you want to enjoy it at close range then a pot on some sort of raised area will let you do so easily.

If you live in a mild area (frosts not more than -5C and some overhead shelter) and have the space - then F excorticata is an option, too. Not as flashy, though.