Bougainvillea Fact Sheet

The bougainvillea produces dark green leaves and ornamental pink and orange blooms. The shrub variety of this plant prevents erosion when planted on slopes and the vine variety does well when placed in a spot that reaches warm temperatures during the day.

History

Native to South America, the bougainvillea plant family contains approximately 250 species, according to the Hendry County Horticulture News.

Size

The bougainvillea vine climbs along arbors, walls and trellises. The shrub variety of bougainvillea grows up to 3 feet high and 6 feet wide, according to the University of California.

Growing Conditions

The bougainvillea requires full sun exposure to thrive and does not take well to transplanting or relocation. This plant tolerates mild drought conditions.

Flowers

The bougainvillea blooms sporadically in the summer and fall, but may bloom through the winter in states with mild weather, like Florida. Remove the outer petals of blooming petals once the flower starts to die to encourage the plant to bloom again.

Considerations

Frost and cold temperatures can damage the tropical bougainvillea, so gardeners need to protect the plant in inclement weather.

References

• University of California: Marin Master Gardener Plant Guide-Bougainvillea
• Hendry County Horticulture News: Bougainvillea