Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a vigorous, woody tropical climber that can be trained over a trellis or pruned into a shrub. Its vivid papery bracts surround tiny white flowers, bringing color through much of the year in warm climates. ## Landscape use Train bougainvillea on a sturdy trellis, fence, or pillar, or grow it in a large container that can be moved to shelter. The Royal Horticultural Society describes a broad range of mature sizes and recommends support and a warm, sunny position ([RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/bougainvillea/growing-guide)). Some forms have sharp thorns, so keep stems away from narrow paths and play areas. ## Siting and seasonal interest Choose full sun for the strongest bract display. In frost-free climates, color may recur through much of the year. UF/IFAS notes that flowering displays can be periodic and especially plentiful in Florida during winter, while the RHS describes summer-to-autumn color ([UF/IFAS guide](https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/bougainvillea/)). Timing varies with climate, cultivar, and pruning. ## Soil and water Provide a well-drained growing medium. UF/IFAS recommends allowing soil to remain somewhat dry, while RHS advises more frequent watering for actively growing container plants and less in winter. Water during active growth, then let the surface dry somewhat between applications; avoid persistently wet compost. ## Maintenance Train young shoots onto their support and prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Wear sturdy gloves when handling thorny stems. Heavy pruning during active growth can delay the next display. In colder regions, grow it in a container and overwinter it in a bright, frost-free location.