Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a colourful flowering plant known for its vibrant papery bracts, which surround its small flowers. It thrives in warm, bright conditions and can make a spectacular feature plant when grown in a sunny position.

Where to position

Choose the brightest position possible, ideally with several hours of direct sunlight each day. Plenty of light is essential for healthy growth and encourages abundant flowering.

A sunny south- or west-facing window can work well indoors. During warmer months, Bougainvillea can benefit from being placed outdoors in a sheltered, sunny position.

Avoid moving the plant frequently, particularly while it is flowering, as sudden changes in conditions can cause flowers or leaves to drop.

Watering

• Allow the compost to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Check the compost before watering.
• Water thoroughly when the surface feels dry.
• Allow excess water to drain away completely.
• Avoid letting the plant sit in water.
• Reduce watering during the cooler, darker months.
• Avoid keeping the compost constantly wet, as Bougainvillea is particularly sensitive to poor drainage.

Top watering tip: Bougainvillea generally prefers being kept slightly on the dry side rather than constantly wet. Allowing the compost to dry slightly between waterings can also encourage flowering.

Temperature & humidity

Bougainvillea prefers warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

Keep away from cold draughts and chilly windows, particularly during winter. It can tolerate relatively dry indoor air and does not require high humidity.

During the warmer months, placing the plant outdoors in a sunny, sheltered position can encourage strong growth and flowering.

Feeding & repotting

Feed every couple of weeks during spring and summer with a balanced flowering plant feed. Avoid excessive feeding with high-nitrogen fertiliser, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Repot when the roots become crowded, using a good-quality, free-draining compost. Bougainvillea generally flowers best when slightly root-bound, so avoid using a pot that is much larger than the existing root ball.

Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new flowering growth. Take care when pruning, as the stems can have sharp thorns.

Common problems

Few or no flowers
Usually caused by insufficient sunlight, excessive watering or too much nitrogen-rich fertiliser. Move the plant to a brighter position and allow the compost to dry slightly between waterings.

Yellow leaves
Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Check the compost and make sure excess water can drain away freely.

Leaf drop
Can occur following changes in temperature, light, watering or position. Keep the plant in a stable, bright location and avoid sudden changes in conditions.

Brown or crispy leaves
May be caused by dry compost, excessive heat or strong sunlight combined with a lack of water. Check the compost regularly during hot weather.

Leggy growth
Usually indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter, sunnier position and prune back long, weak growth if necessary.

Pests
Bougainvillea can occasionally be affected by pests such as aphids, scale insects or whitefly. Check the stems and undersides of leaves regularly and treat any infestation promptly.

Top tips

• Give it plenty of sun: Bright, direct sunlight is essential for flowering.
• Don't overwater: Allow the compost to dry slightly between waterings.
• Encourage flowers: Avoid excessive nitrogen-rich fertiliser.
• Keep it warm: Protect from cold draughts and low temperatures.
• Don't over-pot: A slightly snug pot can encourage flowering and help prevent waterlogged compost.
• Prune carefully: Trim after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
• Watch the thorns: Take care when handling or pruning the plant.

Pet & child safety

Bougainvillea is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, although eating the plant may cause mild stomach upset. The stems can also have sharp thorns, so keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and take care when handling.