Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a versatile and visually stunning plant that can add a tropical flair to any garden or landscape. Bougainvillea is a genus of flowering plants native to South America, particularly Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. It is known for its vibrant and colourful bracts, which are often mistaken for flowers. The actual flowers of the plant are small and white, nestled within these brightly coloured bracts. Bougainvillea is popular in tropical and subtropical regions around the world for its ornamental value and is commonly used in landscaping, gardens, and as a decorative plant.

• Bracts: The most striking feature of bougainvillea is its bracts, which come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, red, orange, yellow, and white. These bracts are modified leaves that surround the true flowers.
• Flowers: The actual flowers are small, tubular, and typically white or yellow, located at the center of the bracts.
• Growth Habit: Bougainvillea can grow as a vine, shrub, or tree, depending on how it is trained and pruned. It is known for its vigorous growth and can reach significant heights if supported.
• Thorns: Many bougainvillea species have thorns, which can make handling the plant a bit tricky.
• Drought Tolerance: Bougainvillea is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid climates.

• Climate: Bougainvillea thrives in warm, sunny climates and is sensitive to frost. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• Watering: While the plant is drought-tolerant, it benefits from regular watering during the growing season. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the desired shape and encourages more prolific blooming. Pruning is best done after a flowering cycle.
• Fertilization: Bougainvillea responds well to regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, especially during the growing season.

• Ornamental: Widely used in gardens, parks, and public spaces for its vibrant colours and ability to cover walls, fences, and trellises.
• Bonsai: Some enthusiasts grow bougainvillea as bonsai due to its attractive appearance and adaptability to pruning.
• Medicinal: In traditional medicine, bougainvillea has been used for various purposes, including treating respiratory issues and as an anti-inflammatory agent.

• Bougainvillea spectabilis: Known for its large, colorful bracts.
• Bougainvillea glabra: Often used for bonsai due to its smaller leaves and more compact growth.
• Bougainvillea peruviana: Recognized for its papery bracts and vigorous growth.