Profuse papery blossoms in hot colors accent bougainvillea, an otherwise unattractive vining plant.
Light
Set in high light (southern exposure). Move gradually into full sun outdoors in summer.
Water
Allow soil surface to dry between thorough waterings. Water more frequently during bloom. Reduce watering during dormancy.
Temperature
Maintain high temperatures for best growth. Plant tolerates average temperatures. Place next to a south-facing wall outdoors in summer. Bring indoors before frost.
Comments
Support with stakes. Prune to desired shape or into a standard (tree form); responds well to drastic cutting back. Leaves fall during dormancy, but new leaves form immediately. Feed heavily during spring and summer. Avoid repotting; plant will drop leaves and stop blossoming if roots are disturbed. Instead, replace soil on surface of pot each spring before active growth. Plant blossoms when days are short. Propagate by seed anytime or six-inch cuttings taken from newer growth (not stiff, old wood) in spring.
