Great Bougainvillea - Bougainvillea Spectabilis

🌞 Why Bougainvillea Rules UAE Gardens

✔ Unbeatable drought resistance – Thrives on neglect
✔ Year-round color – Peak blooms in winter, but flowers 9 months/year
✔ Versatile superstar – Trains as hedge, climber, or tree
✔ Heat warrior – Withstands 50°C+ temperatures
✔ Fast-growing – Covers walls/fences in 1-2 seasons

📏 Growth & Floral Fireworks

• Mature size: 3-8m tall (prune to control)
• True flowers: Tiny white trumpets
• Colorful bracts: Vibrant magenta, purple, orange, gold (lasts weeks)
• Top UAE performers:
  • ‘Barbara Karst’ (deep fuchsia)
  • ‘Orange King’ (flame-colored)
  • ‘White Madonna’ (cool elegance)

📍 Strategic Placement

• Full sun: Minimum 8 hours for maximum blooms
• Perfect for:
  • Sun-baked walls (reduces building heat)
  • Highway medians
  • Poolside privacy screens
  • Balcony railings (dwarf varieties)

💧 Watering Smart

• New plants: Daily for 2 weeks
• Established: Every 10-14 days (less water = more blooms)
• Pro tip: Let soil dry completely between waterings

🌱 Soil & Tough Love

• Soil: Thrives in poor, sandy soils
• Fertilizer: Rarely needed (overfeeding reduces blooms)
• Pruning: Hard prune in February for explosive growth