Bougainvillea Spectabilis
Bougainvillea spectabilis
A stunning tropical vine that creates breathtaking displays of vibrant papery bracts in brilliant magenta-purple that many mistake for flowers. This hardy climber can transform any fence, trellis, or wall into a spectacular living artwork that blooms almost year-round in warm climates. Despite its exotic appearance, it's surprisingly drought-tolerant once established and thrives with minimal care.
Sun
Full sun
Zones
9–11
USDA hardiness
Height
15-40 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Bougainvillea Spectabilis in USDA Zone 9
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Bougainvillea Spectabilis · Zones 9–11
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
Complete Growing Guide
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day). Soil: Clay, High Organic Matter, Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Occasionally Dry. Height: 15 ft. 0 in. - 40 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 15 ft. 0 in. - 41 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 3 feet-6 feet, 6-feet-12 feet, 12-24 feet. Growth rate: Rapid. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Root Cutting, Seed, Stem Cutting. Regions: Coastal.
Harvesting
Winged achenes are 1-1.5 cm, elongate, 5-ribbed containing 1 seed and are distributed by wind and water.
Type: Achene. Length: < 1 inch. Width: < 1 inch.
Bloom time: Fall, Spring, Summer
History & Origin
Origin: Brazil
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Drought, Dry Soil, Heat, Pollution, Salt
- +Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Moths, Pollinators
- +Wildlife value: It is pollinated by night moths, bees, and butterflies.
- +Fast-growing
- +Low maintenance
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Marigold
Repels aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes while attracting beneficial insects
Lavender
Deters pests with aromatic oils and attracts pollinators, shares similar drought tolerance
Rosemary
Repels spider mites and aphids, thrives in similar well-draining soil conditions
Hibiscus
Compatible water and sun requirements, creates attractive tropical garden display
Plumbago
Similar growing conditions and blooming season, provides complementary blue flowers
Pentas
Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, tolerates same heat and humidity levels
Ixora
Shares preference for acidic soil and high humidity, creates layered tropical landscape
Croton
Provides contrasting foliage texture, thrives in similar tropical conditions
Keep Apart
Black Walnut
Releases juglone toxin that inhibits growth and can cause yellowing of leaves
Eucalyptus
Allelopathic properties suppress growth of nearby plants through root and leaf chemicals
Pine Trees
Acidifies soil excessively and creates dense shade that reduces flowering
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving. % Daily Value based on 2,000 calorie diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC #168462)
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Generally disease resistant, good air circulation prevents fungal issues
Common Pests
Aphids, scale insects, caterpillars
Diseases
Root rot (overwatering), leaf spot, powdery mildew