Named after French admiral, who sailed world 1766- 1769- Loius de Bougainvillea. It has sharp thorns on branches and grows aggressively. It can bear low temperatures- minus 2- 5 centigrades. but ideal in winters is 7-10 degrees. Frequently requires fertilisers- low in nitrogen 6-6-6 or 8-8-8. Blooming fertiliser - 2-10-10. Bloom period spring through fall. Flower is edible. Many colors single and dual. Needs dry soil, very bright full sun, little water when established. Flourishes in slightly acidic soil to neutral, range 6-7. Colored bracts, too much shade and water resticts blooming.Family Nyctaginaceae. It contains both male and female components in the same flower. Favours Bonsai. lifespan around 50 years. Thrive in pots - dwarf varieties close to support structures. Sow Cuttings in summer or early autumn- 15 cm/ 6 inches long- new shoot at the top and old shoot at bottom. Pinch plant for side shooting - bushier. Organic fertilisers - coffee grounds nitrogen , eggshells- calcium- banana peels potassium. Prune late winters or early spring and remove dead woods and aggressive growth. Drought tolerant. Ornamental use in landscape as a hedge, ground cover, accent point, arches. columns, etc.
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