Bougainvillea (Pink Pixie)

 While the colorful parts often mistaken for flowers are actually bracts, the true flowers are small and white.

Key Features:

• Climbing Vine: Grows as a vigorous vine, reaching heights of 20-30 feet or more.
• Colorful Bracts: The bracts are papery, brightly colored structures that surround the small, white flowers. They can be pink, purple, red, orange, or yellow.
• Thorny Stems: Bougainvillea has thorny stems, which can help it climb structures.
• Evergreen: Remains green throughout the year in warm climates.

Planting and Care:

Climate:

• Bougainvillea thrives in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunlight.

Soil:

• Well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH is ideal.

Sunlight:

• Full sun is essential for abundant flowering.

Watering:

• Once established, Bougainvillea is drought-tolerant. However, regular watering is necessary during dry spells, especially in the first few years after planting.

Fertilizing:

• Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.

Pruning:

• Regular pruning is necessary to maintain shape and encourage flowering. Prune after flowering to control size and shape.

Propagation:

• Bougainvillea can be propagated from cuttings or air layering.

Uses:

• Climbing Vine: Ideal for covering fences, trellises, and walls.
• Shrub: Can be trained as a shrub or standard tree.
• Hedge: Can be used to create colorful hedges.

Additional Tips:

• Bougainvillea blooms best when stressed. You can encourage flowering by withholding water or pruning.
• Deadheading the faded bracts can promote continuous flowering.
• Bougainvillea is a relatively low-maintenance plant once established.

By following these planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and beauty of Bougainvillea in your garden.