Identifying Bougainvillea Species: Glabra, Spectabilis, Peruviana & Buttiana

Which Bougainvillea Do You Have? Key Differences Explained

Jo Ann has two variegated bougainvilleas—'Raspberry Ice' and 'Delta Dawn'—and wants to know their species (glabra, spectabilis, buttiana, or peruviana).

Species Breakdown from Darlene

Bougainvillea glabra (Most Common Houseplant Type)

• Leaves: Elliptical, glossy, green or variegated, hairless
• Bracts: Triangular, purple/mauve/white, along branches and tips
• Thorns: Small, curved
• Flowers: White to cream
• Habit: Spreading, fast-growing, blooms several times/year

Bougainvillea spectabilis

• Leaves: Large, ovate, hairy underneath, rippled edges
• Bracts: Red/dark pink/purple shades
• Thorns: Large, may be curved
• Flowers: Cream
• Habit: Dense, seasonal blooming (dry season/cool spell)

Bougainvillea peruviana

• Leaves: Strongly ovate, hairless, long and thin
• Bracts: Magenta-pink, rounded, wrinkled
• Thorns: Short, straight
• Flowers: Yellow
• Habit: Lanky, needs pruning for branching, blooms several times/year with dry periods

Most North American houseplant bougainvilleas are B. glabra. For definitive ID, a photo helps. Contact Darlene at plantlady6@yahoo.com.