Tropical bougainvillea

Tropical bougainvillea

Bougainvillea are spectacular climbing plants with vibrant, colorful bracts, perfect for creating a Mediterranean terrace atmosphere… even in Quebec. Whether in pots or containers, they burst into bloom as soon as they receive enough sun and proper watering.

  • Colors & visual effect: bracts in shades of white, pink, fuchsia, red, orange or bicolor, often in abundance during the warmer months.
  • Growth habit: climbing or trailing plant, easily trained on trellis, stake, wall or pergola.
  • Use: ideal in a large pot on the terrace, balcony, greenhouse or near a summer relaxation area.
  • Cultivation in Canada: non-hardy plant, grown in a pot and brought indoors before frost.

Care sheet – Bougainvillea in Canada

  • Light: Full sun is essential (at least 5–6 hours per day). The more light it receives, the more abundant the flowering will be.
  • Substrate: very well-draining potting soil for potted plants (like balcony planters or Pro-Mix), with a good drainage hole.
  • Watering: Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid keeping the pot constantly waterlogged.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilizer for flowering plants every 2–3 weeks during the growing period (late spring to late summer).
  • Temperature: Gradually move outdoors when nighttime temperatures are stable above 10–12 °C. Bring back indoors before the return of cold weather in the autumn.
  • Overwintering: Indoors, in a very bright location. Reduce watering, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Light pruning can be done to control the plant's size.
  • Size & shape: It can be pruned to keep it compact or to train it on a trellis. Pruning is best done in spring or after the main flowering period.