Due to the beauty of their flowers, Fuchsias (Fuchsia spp.) are highly favored for their use in horticulture.
Surprisingly, the berries of all the Fuchsia species and all cultivars are regarded as edible! As a group, they tend to have flavors described as “reminiscent to citrus and black pepper”. The beautiful flowers are also regarded as edible!
Like almost all edible fruits, they too can be made into a jam. They can be lightly sweet and delicious, and others not so much.
Fuchsias are a genus of ornamental shrubs and small trees known for their striking, pendulous flowers in shades of magenta, purple, pink, and white, often attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. The Fuchsias belong to a genus consisting of about 110 species with a multitude of cultivars.
They are mostly shrubs existing in tropical or subtropical zones—although there are Fuchsia tree species!
Fuchsias are characterized by flowers that have a pendulous teardrop shape, which produce flowers in the summer and fall, or all year with the tropical species.
As a flower essence, Fuchsia is touted to assist in “accepting long-repressed emotions”, as well as coming to terms with repressed grief.
Fuchsia boliviana is used in Bolivian and Peruvian folk medicine for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, with infusions made from the leaves and flowers used to treat respiratory infections, diarrhea, and skin irritation. In Mexico, some species have been employed as part of herbal remedies for wounds, colds, and digestive issues.
Upon scientific investigation, Fuchsia flowers have been found to contain a number of different anthocyanin compounds, which are known antioxidants. Other activities found include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing.
In a separate study Fuchsia was found to have the highest polyphenol, tannin and flavonoid contents compared against several other high antioxidant species, along with antibacterial activity.
* The information provided is for educational purposes only. Always properly identify plants before consuming any wild or unfamiliar foods.
So Beautiful You Can Eat Them!
