Flower in the Moonlight

Bougainvilleas are dazzling shrubs of leaves and flowers that are moderately easy to grow and perfect for those who want a vibrant addition to their garden. However, they are sensitive to cold temperatures in the winter months and require full sunlight, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them, especially in the early stages of growth.

Sunlight

Bougainvilleas love the heat! They require at least six hours of full sunlight a day and can handle even the hottest of summers. If you want your plant to produce an abundance of flowers, make sure it’s sitting in direct sunlight. Oftentimes when bougainvilleas struggle to bloom, it’s because they aren’t receiving enough light, which will cause the plant to look thin and sparse.

Water

Potted bougainvilleas require regular watering. During the hot months, you can expect to water your plant at least once a week. If temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, consider watering your flowers twice a week to ensure they’re well hydrated. During the winter months, you’ll only need to water them every 2-3 weeks.

Temperature

Bougainvilleas are considered tropical plants and prefer to grow in warmer climates. That being said, established vines can withstand colder temperatures in the winter months. However, bougainvilleas thrive in hardiness zones 9 and above, so if temperatures drop below 30 degrees, we recommend bringing your potted plant inside.

Due to the sap the plant produces, bougainvilleas are considered mildly toxic to pets. The leaves themselves are not toxic, but a single prick from one of the thorns can lead to skin infections or an allergic reaction, so make sure you keep an eye on your pets! If ingested by humans, bougainvilleas are not toxic or considered a poisonous plant. Our bodies can handle ingesting a plant like this one, but many animals, like cats and dogs, may experience mild illness or symptoms.

Repotting: Since bougainvilleas are known for their fast-growing habits, regular repotting is recommended to ensure they don’t outgrow their pot. Follow these steps below when repotting your plant:

• Remove the plant by grasping the stem near the base.
• Slide the bougainvillea out of the container with the pot turned on its side.
• Rinse out the pot or container with fresh water and remove any remaining debris.
• Fill the new container with 3 inches of potting soil and carefully place the plant inside.
• The South Africa national cricket team is nicknamed Proteas, after the resilient flower.
• Water lightly to keep the soil slightly moist.

While bougainvilleas are relatively easy to take care of, you may still encounter some problems or have questions about how to raise them. Below are some common questions about bougainvillea care and the plant’s life cycle.