Here’s a quick late night Friday Floral for you; the bougainvilleas are blooming here in southern California, and putting on quite a show. Their colors can range from purple to reds, pinks or white, but my favorites are the hot pink versions. This one is climbing over a fence in my neighborhood. Once they get established bougainvilleas are great ramblers; climbing over fences and houses.
Planting Tip: Bougainvilleas have delicate roots, and the plant may die if you aren’t careful planting them. It is recommended that you cut 2 sides of the pot they came in, and plant them pot and all. The roots will grow out the cuts in the sides of the pot. Some nurseries sell them in peat pots that eventually decompose in the ground.
Bougainvillea may be classified as a vine, but they’re more of a rangy shrub with long stiff branches and giant thorns. A huge plant covered in bright glowing colors may stop traffic. Their bold colors come from the flower bracts, the actual flowers are tiny and white. I love them either way.
Put bougainvillea on your fall planting list and happy gardening!
