• Flowers: Bougainvillea doesn't technically produce flowers; what we see as flowers are actually bracts—modified leaves surrounding the true, smaller flowers. These bracts can be found in vibrant shades of pink, purple, red, orange, white, yellow, or even multi-colored. The tiny, true flowers are usually white and sit inside the colorful bracts.
• Growth Habit: Bougainvillea is a fast-growing, woody vine or shrub. It can be grown as a climber, ground cover, or even a small tree, depending on how it is pruned. In some areas, it can grow as large as 30 feet (9 meters) tall, though it can be kept much smaller with regular pruning.
• Leaves: The leaves are generally dark green and ovate in shape, providing a contrast to the bright bracts. In some varieties, the leaves may have a slight sheen.
• Thorns: Bougainvillea plants often have sharp thorns along their stems, so caution is needed when handling them.
• Season: Bougainvillea is a year-round bloomer in warm climates, especially if it is pruned and cared for properly. In cooler climates, it may bloom during the warmer months, but it is often grown in pots and brought indoors during the winter.

Varieties of Bougainvillea:

Bougainvillea comes in many varieties, with different flower colors and growth habits. Some common varieties include:

• Bougainvillea glabra: Known for its smooth leaves and purple-pink bracts.
• Bougainvillea spectabilis: A larger species with large, vibrant purple bracts.
• Bougainvillea 'Barbara Karst': A popular cultivar with bright red to magenta bracts.
• Bougainvillea 'Rosenka': A variety with small, peach-colored bracts that are especially beautiful in containers.
• Bougainvillea 'Golden Orange': Known for its striking golden-orange bracts.