Growth

• Bougainvilleas range in height based on where they are planted, what support structures are present, and what purpose they are serving. Generally, this plant has a spread of 15 to 40 feet, depending upon these factors. Bougainvilleas are considered to have a fast growth rate of more than 25 inches annually.
  
  

Foliage

• Bougainvillea vines feature simple, alternate leaves that are oval in shape. These evergreen, pinnate leaves measure 2 to 4 inches in length. Bougainvillea plants also yield purple, red, lavender or yellow "flowers" that bloom multiple times throughout the year. The blooms produced by the bougainvillea plant are actually three bracts that surround tiny flowers.
  
  

Climate

• Bougainvillea shrubs provide dense ground cover in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11. These zones include the most southern-most, tropical parts of Texas, California and Florida. Within these zones, bougainvillea plants prefer being planted in acidic or slightly alkaline clay, sand or loamy soils. Highly drought tolerant, bougainvilleas love full sunlight. Space bougainvilleas 36 to 60 inches apart from one another to promote healthy growth.
  
  

Varieties

• "California Gold" bougainvilleas are popular for their golden yellow color while the "Vickie" variety produces gold and green variegated leaves. "Juanita Hatten" varieties feature green leaves with gold spots and dark pink flowers. "Texas Dawn," "Surprise" and "Double Pink" varieties all produce pink flowers in various shades. For white flowers, plant the "Jamaica White" variety.
  
  

Care

• Bougainvillea plants are low maintenance and are generally free of pests and diseases, except for the occasional case of worms or aphids, which chew the leaves of the vine. This vine requires pruning to achieve the desired space for the landscape. Promote healthy growth by trimming the shoots produced by the bougainvillea, which can stunt growth if not properly trimmed. When trimming, avoid contact with the 1- to 2-inch thorns produced by the vine. This tropical plant responds well to the application of many fertilizers available for retail at garden centers.