Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Bougainvillea species

Bougainvillea
Nyctaginaceae family

Foliage, Flowers & Fruit
Grows 5 to 20 feet in diameter, 5 to 20 feet in height. Prolific brilliant blooms in many different colors (depending on variety). Color from flower bracts (like Poinsettia).

Hardiness
Best near the coast. May be cold damaged in interior areas. Older plants have more cold tolerance. Full sun to partial shade in hotter areas. Needs very little water once established. Excess water lessens flower production.

Landscape Use
Large vine to cover wall or drape down from roof. Ground cover for large areas (make sure to select the proper variety).

Problems?
Pest free. Take care not to disturb roots when planting from container.

Comments
Make sure to select the correct variety to fit your landscape. Some grow vigorously and tend to climb any support. Others stay relatively small and shrub-like.