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GENERAL
Origin
:
Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
Vigour
:
fairly fast
growing
Humidity
:
semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
humid
Propagation :
cuttings
Maintenance :
high
CONDITIONS
Urban climate :
resistant
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
medium
Salinity/ppm :
low (1000 ppm)
Hardiness
:
-3°C
SHAPE
Type
:
climbers
Height
:
10 m-25 m
Spread
:
4 m-10 m
Foliage
:
semi-evergreen
FLOWER
Colour
:
red, purple, pink,
white
Size
:
2 cm - 4 cm
Period
:
April - June
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
achene
Fruit size
:
0.4 cm
The generic name for Showy Bougainvillea was given in honour of Admiral Comte de Bou-
gainville, who sponsored a journey to Brazil where the plant originates. It is probably the better
choice for Arriyadh, because it is hardier than B. glabra. This sprawling climber is well protected
by strong, curved thorns on hairy, woody stems. Its leaves are smaller than B. glabra and shiny
on top and soft and hairy underneath. They last during mild winters, but are sometimes shed if
conditions are unfavourable. The specific epithet stands for the spectacular colourful clusters of
white, pink, red or purple flowers that appear seasonally, especially in spring. Three true, pale-
yellow flowers are surrounded by bracts that make the magnificent display. Dormancy factors
such as low temperatures or drought seem to trigger flowering. Its vigorous growth up to 20
metres, depending on its support, demands frequent pruning, and branches need to be attached
to a wall, pergola, trellis or strong fence. Showy Bougainvilleas may also be hedged. Clipping is
possible at any time of the year, but severe cutting should be done after the flowering season in
autumn. This species may even be grown as a bonsai or topiary plant. Full sun and nutrient-rich,
well-drained garden soil suit it best. In pots or containers, plants should be given a soluble ferti-
liser weekly, except in winter. On north-facing walls, the lack of light results in few or no flowers.
The numerous cultivars are easily propagated by hardwood cuttings placed in indirect sunlight.
70
Bougainvillea spectabilis,
Nyctaginaceae
Bougainvillea,
Paper Flower, janamiyah