Bougainvillea is a widely sought-after ornamental plant, prized for its spectacular display of vibrant, paper-like blooms. These colorful structures, technically modified leaves called bracts, surround the small, true flowers, creating a striking tropical aesthetic. Once established, the plant is robust, sun-loving, and drought-tolerant. This combination of beauty and resilience makes it a highly desirable, low-maintenance addition for gardeners in warmer climates.
Sources of Bougainvillea
Local garden centers and independent nurseries are often the best starting point for finding Bougainvillea, particularly for first-time buyers. These retailers typically stock cultivars proven to perform well in the specific local climate. Purchasing locally allows for immediate, in-person inspection of the plant’s health and provides access to specialized horticultural advice from staff familiar with the genus Bougainvillea.
Big box stores and general home improvement centers provide a convenient alternative, often stocking plants at a lower initial cost than specialized nurseries. However, these vendors typically carry a limited selection, focusing on common varieties. The plants at these locations may receive less individualized care, making a thorough health inspection before purchase important.
Online nurseries and mail-order specialists offer the greatest diversity of Bougainvillea varieties, including rare colors and specific dwarf or trailing forms. This option is valuable for collectors or those seeking a specific cultivar name. The primary drawback is that the plant cannot be inspected before shipping, and the specimen may experience temporary stress during transit, requiring careful acclimation upon arrival.
Selecting a Healthy Plant
When inspecting a potential purchase, attention should first be paid to the foliage health, which indicates the plant’s overall condition. Leaves should exhibit a deep, consistent green color. Look for the absence of yellowing, which suggests nutrient deficiencies or overwatering issues. Check the underside of the leaves and stem joints for common pests like aphids, scale, or mealybugs, which can quickly spread to other plants.
The structure of the stem and branches should be assessed to ensure the plant has a strong, woody base capable of supporting future growth. Avoid plants that appear excessively “leggy,” meaning they have long, thin, and sparse stems, as this indicates the plant has been reaching for light. Stems should feel firm and resilient, not brittle or overly soft, which might suggest root or crown rot.
If buying a container-grown plant, gently lifting the plant from its pot can reveal the condition of the root system. Healthy Bougainvillea roots should appear light tan or white and fibrous, indicating active growth. A plant that is significantly root-bound, with roots circling tightly around the container walls, will require careful root pruning upon planting to encourage outward growth.
While the vibrant bracts are the main draw, the plant’s health is more important than the current floral display. Select a plant with a mix of fully colored bracts and developing buds, suggesting a longer period of color production post-purchase. Avoid specimens that have already shed a large portion of their color, as the current bloom cycle may be nearing its end.
Understanding Purchasing Options
Bougainvillea is frequently sold as small starter plants or cuttings, which is the most economical way to acquire specific cultivars. These small specimens require the longest establishment period and are sensitive to environmental changes and watering issues. They demand patience and consistent care to reach a mature size suitable for landscaping.
The most common option is buying potted plants, typically sold in standard sizes ranging from 1-gallon to 5-gallon containers. A 3-gallon size offers a good balance between cost and maturity, providing a plant established enough for immediate planting. These potted plants are ready to be transferred to the ground or into a larger permanent container.
For immediate visual impact, Bougainvillea is often sold in hanging baskets. These are usually mature plants with abundant trailing growth and a full display of color. They are the highest initial investment due to their maturity and aesthetic readiness. They are perfect for immediate placement on patios or balconies.
Premium options include plants trained onto trellises or shaped into “standards,” which resemble a small tree with a clear trunk and a colorful crown. These forms are the highest priced because of the labor involved in training the woody vine. They are ideal for buyers looking for an architectural element or a ready-made focal point.
Timing Your Purchase and Planting
Since Bougainvillea is a tropical to subtropical plant, its successful outdoor establishment depends on local climate and timing. The plant thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11, where it can often be planted year-round. In bordering zones, careful consideration of seasonal temperatures is necessary.
The best time to purchase and plant Bougainvillea outdoors is after the threat of the last expected frost has passed. This typically coincides with late spring or early summer, when both daytime and nighttime temperatures are consistently warm. Planting during this period allows the root system to establish quickly in the warm soil before cooler weather begins.
While plants may be available for sale in covered environments during cooler months, purchasing them for immediate outdoor planting is not recommended. Premature planting exposes the sensitive new growth to cold shock, which can damage or kill the plant. If purchased early, the Bougainvillea should be kept in a protected, sunny location until soil temperatures are above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.