With its explosions of colour cascading over walls and terraces, Bougainvillaea is a true symbol of summer across Mediterranean cities and villages. Tough, sun-loving, and incredibly versatile, this plant thrives in hot, dry climates—making it perfect for balconies, gardens, and patios in August.

At Planteka, we help you care for your plants with more confidence and joy. Through expert-led workshops, practical guides, and our personalized Plant Doctor consultations, we’re here to support you at every step—whether you’re just starting out or growing your own urban jungle.

This is a part of our plant of the month series. Check out our previous issue where we covered aloe vera.

Origin and symbolism of Bougainvillea

Native to South America, Bougainvillea is beloved worldwide for its cascading, colourful displays. This sun-loving plant is famous for its bright “blooms”—but did you know those aren’t true flowers? The colourful parts are modified leaves called bracts that surround its tiny white flowers. Symbolising passion and welcome, this plant has become an icon in Mediterranean landscapes.

With shades ranging from magenta to orange, white, and even purple, Bougainvillea transforms sunlit spaces into a tropical paradise.

Types of Bougainvillea to grow

There are over 300 varieties of Bougainvillea, but here are some favourites for Mediterranean gardens and containers:

✔ Bougainvillea spectabilis – Large, vigorous variety with magenta bracts

✔ Bougainvillea glabra – Compact and thornless, great for pots

✔ ‘Barbara Karst’ – Bright red bracts and prolific flowering

✔ ‘Raspberry Ice’ – Striking variegated foliage with pink bracts

✔ ‘Vera Deep Purple’ – Dwarf variety, ideal for small balconies or hanging baskets

How to take care of Bougainvillea

Light

• Needs 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flowering.
• Too little light = more leaves, fewer blooms.

Soil

• Loves well-draining soil.
• In pots: Use a cactus or succulent mix with added perlite.
• In the ground: Sandy, slightly acidic soil works best. Avoid heavy clay.

Watering

• Water deeply but infrequently—let the soil dry between waterings.
• Overwatering is the #1 killer of Bougainvillea.
• Reduce watering after flowering to encourage new bracts.

Temperature & humidity

• Thrives in warm climates (USDA zones 9–11).
• Bring potted Bougainvillea indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F).
• No need for misting—Bougainvillea tolerates dry air.

Pruning

• Prune lightly after each flowering cycle to encourage new growth and more blooms.
• Wear gloves—many varieties have thorns.

Pot vs. ground: where to plant Bougainvillea?

Warm climates (Mediterranean, subtropical): Plant directly in the ground where it can sprawl and climb. Perfect for covering pergolas, walls, or fences.

Cooler climates: Keep it in a pot to bring indoors during winter. Bougainvillea flowers beautifully in containers and actually prefers slightly cramped roots—it blooms better when “pot bound.”

Indoors: Only as a temporary measure. Bougainvillea struggles to flower indoors due to low light levels. If overwintering inside, place it in the brightest spot or use grow lights.

How to propagate Bougainvillea

Want more Bougainvilleas for free? Here’s how to propagate:

1. Take semi-hardwood cuttings (10–15 cm) in late spring or summer.
2. Remove leaves from the lower half and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
3. Plant in a well-draining propagation mix.
4. Cover with a plastic bag or place in a mini greenhouse to maintain humidity.
5. Keep warm (18–24°C) and in bright, indirect light.
6. Roots should form in 4–8 weeks.

Common problems & solutions

No blooms? Too much water or fertilizer can cause leafy growth. Hold back and give more sun.

Yellow leaves? Usually overwatering. Check drainage and adjust watering frequency.

Leggy growth? Prune back after flowering to encourage a bushier shape.

If you don’t see a solution to your problem here, book an online consultation with Val, one of our resident Plant Doctors with more than 15 years of experience in gardening and an expert in Mediterranean plant care. See her availability here.

Why we love Bougainvillea

It’s tough, beautiful, and rewards minimal care with months of colour. Plus, it’s drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for water-wise Mediterranean gardens.

If your Bougainvillea looks sad or refuses to bloom, our Plant Doctor service can help you troubleshoot watering, pruning, or light issues. Book a one-on-one consultation and let Planteka help your Bougainvillea thrive.