Bougainvillea spectabilis aka Great Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea spectabilis is a woody vine from Brazil. It grows wild in the country's east and south. It is part of the Nyctaginaceae family. It grows in rainforests. Gardeners call it great bougainvillea or paper flower. People now grow it in gardens across many warm regions. It has spread beyond gardens in some places, too. These include Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean. It has also spread to many ocean islands.

This vine stays green, grows fast, and spreads in dense growth. NC State gives heights of 15–40 feet [4.6–12.2 metres]. It gives a spread of 15–41 feet [4.6–12.5 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants gives stem lengths of 33 feet [10 metres]. Curved thorns help it grip nearby plants and climb. Garden plants may still need ties to a firm support. Long thorns grow on brown stems where leaves meet branches. Soft hairs cover the branches and the undersides of leaves. The green leaves are oval or shaped like eggs. Each leaf is simple, with one blade, not smaller leaflets. Leaves grow in turn along the stem, rather than pairs. They feel like leather and show clear veins beneath.

Bright bracts give the plant much of its colour. These changed leaves can be purple, red, pink, or orange. They sit beneath small flowers that grow in threes. The flowers have round tubes with cream or white tips. NC State lists bloom in spring, summer, and fall. Bees, butterflies, and night moths carry pollen between the flowers. The small fruits have wings and five ribs. Called achenes, each holds one seed. Wind and water can spread the seeds.

Grow this vine in full sun and soil that drains well. It suits hot weather and climates with a dry season. Damp air all the time can mean fewer flowers. Rich soil should hold some water but not stay soggy. It accepts sand, loam, or clay, with acid to neutral pH. Water deeply, then let the soil dry before watering again. Plants can cope with drought once they take root. NC State lists USDA zones 9b through 11b. In colder climates, growers use pots or greenhouses. They may also grow it as an annual. Less water and feed after bloom help it rest.

This plant can cover fences, walls, and pergolas. It also serves as a hedge or screen. Pots bring its colour to patios and spaces near pools. Keep its sharp thorns away from busy paths. The supplied sources name no specific pests or diseases. People make a violet-coloured drink from the bracts. Useful Tropical Plants reports no known hazards. This does not show that the plant is safe for pets. People have used it for fertility control in traditional practices. Studies explore its effects on blood sugar. These reports do not prove that it treats people.