If you’re longing for a year-round burst of vibrant color in your garden, look no further than the bougainvillea. This astounding plant is a flowering machine that thrives in temperate climates. In this article, I’ll share my personal bougainvillea care tips, gained from years of experience growing this captivating plant in two different hardiness zones.
A Versatile Beauty
Bougainvillea comes in many different types, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you prefer a trellis climber, an arbor conqueror, a container dweller, or a majestic tree form, bougainvillea can meet your desires. From hedges to ground covers, there’s a bougainvillea variety to suit every garden.
Some of the most common bougainvillea varieties you’ll encounter are Barbara Karst, San Diego Red, Rosenka, James Walker, Torch Glow, and Purple Queen. You may also know bougainvillea by its alternate name, Bugambilia.
A close-up of the very floriferous Bougainvillea glabra that grew up & across my garage in Santa Barbara. I miss that mass of color!
Expert Tips for Bougainvillea Care
Bougainvillea Growth Rate
Bougainvillea is a fast-growing plant when provided with the right conditions. To ensure optimal growth, make sure your bougainvillea receives plenty of sunlight. Insufficient sun exposure can lead to leggy growth and a lack of flowering. Once established in warm, sunny conditions, bougainvillea will take off and delight you with its rapid growth.
Bougainvillea Cold Tolerance
It’s important to note that bougainvillea is not suitable for colder climates. This flowering marvel thrives in USDA zones 9b – 11, and dislikes temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period. However, a few nights of light frost won’t harm established bougainvilleas. Keep in mind that some varieties may shed leaves during cooler winters, but new growth will appear in the spring.
Many species of butterflies love bougainvillea. The Fritillary is one of them.
Bougainvillea Sun Requirements
To enjoy an abundance of vibrant blooms, your bougainvillea needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This sun-loving plant thrives in heat and requires ample sunshine to produce its signature color display. If you reside in a borderline hardy zone, consider planting your bougainvillea against a warm wall or in a sheltered corner to provide extra warmth and sun exposure.
Bougainvillea Watering
Bougainvillea is relatively drought-tolerant once established. To keep your plant healthy, provide a deep watering every 3-4 weeks, instead of shallow and frequent watering. During the establishment phase (first couple of years), water regularly. However, be cautious not to over-water, as bougainvilleas are susceptible to root rot. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent rot and maintain the plant’s vitality.
These bougainvilleas in planter boxes provide a colorful privacy screen to this building with a wall of windows.
Bougainvillea Fertilizer
Surprisingly, bougainvilleas don’t require frequent fertilizing. In fact, I’ve never fertilized my bougainvilleas during planting or maintenance. Instead, I feed them with compost upon planting and apply a 3″ layer of compost every year or two in late winter or early spring. However, if you prefer to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for bougainvilleas, follow the instructions carefully, applying it once or twice a year.
Pests and Pruning
Bougainvilleas are generally resilient to pests. However, keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites, which might appear on new growth in spring. If necessary, spray them off with water or use organic pest control methods. Another common pest is the bougainvillea looper caterpillar, which feeds on the leaves but usually disappears on its own. Be cautious of the plant’s thorns when pruning, as they can be sharp.
Planting and Training
When planting or transplanting bougainvillea, choose a location that provides ample sunlight, as bougainvilleas thrive in sunny spots. Transplanting established bougainvilleas can be challenging due to their sensitivity to root disturbance. It’s often better to purchase a new plant instead. To support the taller growing varieties, provide them with sturdy support and train them using ties. Bougainvilleas are not self-attaching or twining vines, so ensure the ties are strong and secure.
Pruning and Color Changing
Pruning plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and appearance of bougainvilleas. Prune your plant in late winter or early spring to determine its growth pattern for the upcoming season. Lighter prunes after each bloom cycle can also help promote flowering. Remember to wear protective gloves while pruning due to the plant’s thorns. As the season progresses, the color of bougainvillea may change, often becoming more vibrant in cooler temperatures and less intense in hotter climates.
A well-established bougainvillea grows in a tall urn planter at La Encantada in Tucson. You can see the trellis used for training attached to the pillar behind the plant.
Bougainvillea in Containers
If you prefer to grow bougainvillea in containers, select low-growing varieties suitable for potted environments. Large bougainvilleas require spacious containers to accommodate their extensive root systems. Ensure the pot has proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Use a well-draining organic potting soil mixed with compost to provide the ideal growing conditions for your potted bougainvillea.
Bougainvillea Year-round
One of the most appealing aspects of bougainvillea is its ability to bloom almost year-round in warm climates. In cooler regions, they will typically bloom for 9-10 months. The brilliance of bougainvillea’s floral display comes from the tiny white flowers in the center and the colorful bracts (colored leaves). Although bougainvilleas go through bloom cycles, established plants offer a long-lasting show of color. The color intensity may vary depending on sunlight exposure and temperature, so the warmer and sunnier the location, the more vibrant the blooms.
Your Bougainvillea Care Journey Starts Here!
Now armed with these expert tips, you’re ready to embark on your bougainvillea care journey. Remember to provide this sun-loving plant with adequate sunlight, water it appropriately, and prune it when necessary. With a bit of effort and care, your bougainvillea will reward you with breathtaking displays of color. Get ready to transform your garden into a floral fiesta that even Carmen Miranda would approve of!
Note: This article was originally published on 5/7/2017 and was updated on 8/13/2020 & then again on 5/31/2023.
Happy gardening, and thanks for joining me on this colorful adventure!
