Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a genus of 18 flowering plants, native to South America, and in the Nyctaginaceae (four-o’clock) family. They are woody vines with a scrambling habit. 

Plant them in full sun in sandy or loamy acidic soils with good drainage. They are tolerant of drought, heat, and salt. Traditionally planted along trellises and fences, they can be trained to grow more shrub-like in containers. 

The plant is sterile and is propagated from stem cuttings. Blooming is on new growth. The actual flower is small, tubular, and generally white, but each cluster of three flowers is surrounded by three to six brightly colored bracts, including pinks, purple, red, orange, white, or yellow colors. 

In cooler climates, they can be used as an annual or a houseplant in containers and hanging baskets but are most often seen growing indoors in a conservatory. 

Quick ID Hints: 

• Stem is covered in long, thin thorns that often appear at the leaf axil
• Three small white flowers are surrounded by three to six brightly colored bracts

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Aphids are occasional problems. Thorns are present.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.