Bougainvillea Varieties: Popular Species and Characteristics

Explore Bougainvillea varieties, including popular species like Bougainvillea glabra and 'Barbara Karst,' with vibrant bracts and unique characteristics

Below is a table that highlights various Bougainvillea species, including their key characteristics and whether they are best suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation.

Bougainvillea Species	Characteristics	Indoor/Outdoor
Bougainvillea glabra	Known for its vibrant magenta, pink, or purple bracts; evergreen and thorny vine.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea spectabilis	Features large, showy bracts in shades of purple, pink, and red; fast-growing vine.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea peruviana	Smaller flowers with purple to magenta bracts; compact growth habit.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea glabra 'Raspberry Ice'	A hybrid with soft lavender-pink bracts and a moderate growth habit.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Barbara Karst'	Bright red to orange-pink bracts; one of the most popular varieties for its hardy growth.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Golden Dreams'	Yellow and golden-orange bracts with a bushy, compact growth form.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Pink Pixie'	Dwarf variety with small pink flowers and compact size.	Indoor/Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Miss Alice'	White bracts with a pale lavender center; semi-vining and popular in gardens.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Vera'	Compact growth with vibrant purple bracts; ideal for containers and small spaces.	Indoor/Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Snow White'	White bracts, ideal for a more subtle look; fast-growing and low maintenance.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Thornless'	Thornless variety with soft pink or purple bracts; popular for areas with children.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Madame'	Deep purple or magenta bracts; attractive ornamental plant with dense foliage.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'San Diego Red'	Red to orange bracts; medium-sized vine, ideal for trellises and walls.	Outdoor
Bougainvillea 'Brevifolia'	Compact, small-leaved variety with deep pink flowers; more bush-like than vining.	Outdoor

Key Characteristics of Bougainvillea Varieties:

• Bracts & Flowers: The brightly colored bracts are the standout feature, with shades of pink, purple, red, orange, white, and even yellow. The flowers are usually small and white, surrounded by the vibrant bracts.
• Growth Habit: Bougainvillea varieties vary from large, sprawling vines to smaller, more compact bushes that work well in containers or small spaces.
• Climate Adaptability: Bougainvilleas thrive in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates. They are heat-loving plants, making them ideal for sunny spots.