A robust, large-growing climber armed with stout thorns and clothed in showy crimson, red and orange bract clusters over a very long season. A spectacular subtropical screen for hot, sunny positions.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 10 m H × 6 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Great Bougainvillea
Botanically, Bougainvillea spectabilis is a fast-growing climber in the Nyctaginaceae family. It reaches around 10 m tall and 6 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red, orange and purple flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Great Bougainvillea
Great Bougainvillea suits tropical, subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Great Bougainvillea does best in sandy, free-draining and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 3.6 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Great Bougainvillea is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Great Bougainvillea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Great Bougainvillea in the garden
Great Bougainvillea earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Great Bougainvillea with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning.
Buying Great Bougainvillea
Plant Sale lists Great Bougainvillea as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.