Bougainvillea 'Alexandra'
bougainvillea
- Position: bright, indirect light
- Soil: loam-based peat-free compost
- Rate of growth: fast
- Hardiness: tender (indoors only)
- Current height: approximately 30cm (+ or - 10% including the pot)
- Pot cover: choose a 16cm pot cover to give a good fit over the pot
This robust Mediterranean climber, the backdrop to many a summer holiday snap, is a gem for experienced growers, showcasing dazzling magenta-purple bracts that steal the spotlight from July to September. In the UK, ‘Alexandra’ flourishes in conservatories but can grace sunny patios during warmer months, requiring protection from frost as temperatures drop. Growing swiftly, it can reach heights of 4m plus outdoors, though will be more restrained in pots. Sporting thorny woody stems and soft oval leaves, it retains its greenery year-round if kept above 10°C.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
Water sparingly during winter and repot or top-dress in spring. Bougainvilleas can live for over 50 years if given the correct care. They much prefer a heated conservatory and tend to go dormant at around 10°C, when they lose their leaves and flowers. Temperatures below this can be fatal. Once dormant, keep on the dry side until they come back into growth. When they are in growth, water moderately and feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Repot or top-dress the compost in spring and during the growing season, give it a light trim to keep it bushy.