Bougainvillea tree is a species of flowering plants native to South America. The plant is named after French admiral Louis Antoine de Bougainville, who was the first to bring the plant to Europe in the 18th century. The bougainvillea tree is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 10 feet. It has dark green, ovate leaves and clusters of brightly colored flowers that bloom throughout the year. The bougainvillea tree is popular as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Related plant:
Bougainvillea Shrub
Related plant:
Bougainvillea Bonsai
About soil condition, the bougainvillea tree prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is high in organic matter. The tree is not particular about pH and will do well in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. The tree does not tolerate salt and will not grow well in coastal areas.
Similar to other plants, bougainvillea trees require sun to grow. They should be planted in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Bougainvillea trees are not tolerant of shade and will not flower if they do not receive enough sun. Full sun is best, but they will also grow in partial sun.
The temperature condition is ideal for bougainvillea tree. It can withstand extreme heat and can tolerate frost. The tree grows best in full sun and can tolerate some shade. It is important to water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 60%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will drop and the plant will enter a state of dormancy. If the humidity is too high, the plant will become susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases.
Regarding fertilizer, this kind of plant requires a lot of watering and feeding. For best results, use a slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The ideal fertilizer ratio for bougainvillea is 8-8-8. With regard to the roots, they must be well-drained and moist but not soggy. If the roots are too wet, they will rot. If they are too dry, the plant will wilt and die.
Pruning a bougainvillea tree is important to maintain its shape and size. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches. Cut back any branches that are growing out of control. Trim back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against other branches.
Propagation is by cuttings taken from almost any part of the plant. Although it can be done at any time of year, it is best done in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long, with at least two nodes. Nodes are the points on the stem where leaves are attached. The bottom node should be buried in the soil.
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 10 to 12 inches a year. Young trees growing in rich soil can grow even faster, reaching a height of 15 to 20 feet in just a few years. Once a bougainvillea tree is established, its growth rate slows down to about 2 to 3 inches per year.
Common problems for this kind of plant are that the leaves may turn yellow and drop off, the stems may become soft and mushy, and the plant may become stunted in growth. All of these problems can be caused by too much water.
Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Bougainvillea
Ask IFAS: Bougainvillea - University of Florida
Bougainvillea | Mississippi State University Extension Service
