Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bougainvillea on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Nyctaginaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea spectabilis, commonly known as bougainvillea, is a vigorous climbing shrub native to South America, renowned for its vibrant colored bracts that envelop tiny white flowers, creating a stunning visual display. Its exuberant growth and intense colors (pink, purple, red, orange) make it ideal for covering walls, pergolas, and fences in warm, sunny climates, adding a Mediterranean or tropical touch to any garden.
Native range
South America (Brazil, Peru, Argentina)
Care tips
It requires full direct sun for at least 6 hours a day to bloom profusely and prefers well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. Watering should be moderate; it's best to let the substrate dry out between waterings to avoid waterlogging, as it tolerates drought better than excessive water. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to leaf drop and lack of flowering. It benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage new blooms.
How to save a dying Bougainvillea
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or massive leaf drop, no blooms, soft or dry stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, consider repotting to a larger one if root-bound. Prune dry or diseased branches.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (especially in winter) or lack of direct sunlight. They love sun and well-drained soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted from overwatering. With pruning, sun, and proper watering, it can recover.