Great Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis): Vigorous Vine with Colorful Bracts

Bougainvillea spectabilis, the Great Bougainvillea, is the species behind the riotous color of tropical walls and arbors. Its small, white, tubular flowers are surrounded by large, papery bracts in magenta, purple, red, orange, or white—creating the iconic display.

Botanical Profile

Culture & Spectacle

Native to Brazil, this vigorous, woody vine can climb 15–40 feet with thorny stems. The leaves are simple, ovate. The true flowers are tiny, white, and tubular; the colorful bracts (3–6 per cluster) persist for weeks. It blooms in cycles, often triggered by dry periods.

It demands full sun, well-drained soil, and minimal water once established (drought encourages bloom). Hardy in zones 9–11; in cooler zones, grow in containers and overwinter indoors (may drop leaves). Prune after flowering to control size. The ultimate color machine for warm-climate walls, fences, and pergolas. Many hybrids and cultivars exist.