Bougainvillea peruviana

Peruvian bougainvillea

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Peruvian bougainvillea

Context

nativeRegion

Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia, South America.

usdaZones

9-11 (can be grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones).

companionPlants

Plumbago, Jasmine, Hibiscus, Lantana

culturalUses

Widely used as an ornamental for vibrant color and as a flowering hedge, screen, or pergola plant in tropical and subtropical regions.

Care

LightFull sun is ideal; at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

WateringAllow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly but infrequently; drought tolerant once established.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or loamy soil; tolerates poor soil but not heavy, waterlogged conditions.

FertilizerLight, balanced fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen.

HumidityPrefers moderate to low humidity; tolerates dry air.

TemperatureThrives in warm climates; optimal range is 18-35°C (65-95°F). Protect from frost.

HabitVigorous, woody, scrambling climber or shrub.

Mature Size2-6 meters (6-20 feet) high, can spread extensively.

Growth RateFast-growing under optimal conditions.

BloomingBracts, often magenta or purple, appear mostly in spring and summer in flushes, especially when kept dry.

DormancyMay enter semi-dormancy in cooler climates; minimal growth in winter.

MethodsSemi-hardwood cuttings, Seeds (less common), Layering

DifficultyModerate (cuttings root readily with warmth and humidity)

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for cuttings.

PruningPrune after each blooming cycle to shape and control size; remove dead wood.

RepottingYoung plants annually; mature plants every 2-3 years or as needed; prefers to be root-bound.

Pests & DiseasesRelatively resistant but can suffer from aphids, caterpillars, spider mites, and fungal leaf spot if overwatered.

ToxicityMildly toxic to pets if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation.

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