New River Purple Bougainvillea

New River is a vigorous bougainvillea selected for a dense show of purple bracts and freely branching growth. It can be trained over a trellis or fence, clipped as a hedge, or kept much smaller in a container; its common alias, Palm Beach, is used by the grower. ## Growth and display [R&G Family Nursery](https://rgbougainvillea.com/New-River.php) describes New River as a moderate-to-fast grower with a thick flowering habit and lists 20–30 ft tall by 6–9 ft wide, while [Smarty Plants Nursery](https://smartyplantsnursery.com/product/bougainvillea-vine-bougainvillea-new-river/) reports 10–30 ft tall by 8–10 ft wide. Both note that pruning can keep it smaller. The nursery describes its form as dense and evergreen, suitable for hedges, overhangs, and trellises. Mature spread depends on whether stems are trained vertically or allowed to branch. ## Siting Plant in full, direct sun—R&G recommends at least five hours daily—and use well-drained soil. The grower lists USDA zones 9–11 for persistent outdoor growing; in colder climates it can provide annual color or be grown in a movable container. Once established, allow the root zone to dry somewhat between thorough waterings. Protect the thorny stems from traffic areas and provide a sturdy support if the vine is allowed to climb. ## Maintenance Tie or guide young stems onto their support and prune after flowering or as needed to control size and maintain access. Wear gloves when pruning. Water regularly while the plant establishes, then reduce irrigation rather than keeping the soil constantly wet. A container makes it easier to manage this vigorous cultivar and protect it from cold.