Paperflower
bougainvillea spectabilis
Also known as: ["Great Bougainvillea","Paper Flower"]
Overview
A vibrant, woody vine known for its colorful bracts that resemble flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Bougainvillea |
| Botanical Name: | Bougainvillea spectabilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with added perlite or sand).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in the brightest spot indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Maximize light exposure; rotate plant for even growth; use reflective surfaces to enhance light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with good organic content
pH: 5.5–6.0 (slightly acidic).
Use well-draining soil; avoid heavy clay; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 40°F / 4°C but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize after pruning for blooms; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leafy growth at the expense of flowers; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F / 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long, leggy stems; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; encourages new growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during hot, dry periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to frost damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute as directed; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or skin irritation if they come into contact with or ingest parts of Bougainvillea spectabilis. The thorns pose a risk of physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Bougainvillea spectabilis by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the plant's irritant compounds. The thorns may also cause physical injury if stepped on or ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBougainvillea spectabilis contains irritant compounds in its sap and thorns that can cause mild to moderate irritation upon contact or ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic but can provoke adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bougainvillea spectabilis toxic to pets?
A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Bougainvillea spectabilis?
A: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does Bougainvillea spectabilis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
