Paperflower - Bougainvillea glabra (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Paperflower

Also known as: Lesser bougainvillea

The paperflower is commonly used as an outdoor ornamental plant and thrives in warm climates. The genus Bougainvillea glabra is the official flower of many places, including Guam, Pingtung, Ipoh, Tagbilaran, San Clemente, Guangzhou, and Naha.

Scientific classification

Species

Paperflower (Bougainvillea glabra)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub, Vine

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

3 m to 5 m

Plant Height

1 m to 5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Purple, Yellow, Red, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Pink

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Paperflower

Distribution of Paperflower

Distribution Map

The paperflower is native to eastern Brazil, where it grows in forests and scrublands. It is grown as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world, thriving outside in warm temperate, subtropical, and tropical ones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy desert soils, Slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and has resistance to sulfur dioxide.

Garden Use

Paperflower is an evergreen perennial climbing shrub that is commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its paper-like, colorful modified leaves. Its wide-spreading habit often sees it used for hedging or borders. It can also be trained to climb trellises and fencing. Paperflower is good for Pollinator or drought-tolerant gardens. Plant with different hued bougainvillea for color contrast.

Symbolism

Welcome, encouragement of free trade, peace, desire

Interesting Facts

Paperflowers have unique flower patterns, and can make good bonsai plants. Its flowers are mostly purplish-red, bright and dazzling. In Brazil, women often decorate their hair with these flowers

Name Story

Paperflower: When you notice this plant, you might wonder why it is called the paperflower. This is because it gives the appearance of an artificial flower. Its small white flowers are usually around colorful paper bracts. It is because of this peculiar texture and appearance, this plant is called the paperflower.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Paperflower, including the following common varieties :

Bougainvilleas 'Juanita Hatten'Bougainvilleas 'Imperial Delight'Bougainvilleas 'Afterglow'

Quickly Identify Paperflower

Vivid bracts in pinks, purples, and reds conceal small, white flowers.

Woody vines with sharp thorns require support for climbing or sprawling.

1/2 inch (1.3 cm) achene fruit with dry, hard covering blends with bracts.

Oval to elliptical leaves, 1.6-4 inches (4-10 cm) long, with glossy texture.

Slender, woody stem with irregularly spaced thorns and climbing growth habit.

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Care Guide for Paperflower

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Paperflower thrives in arid conditions, showcasing high drought tolerance. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, prefers well-draining soil, and exhibits effective water storage strategies. Best grown outdoors, paperflower is notable for its vibrant bracts and sprawling growth habits.

Fertilize: Optimal fertilization is crucial for paperflower growth and blooms. Use a balanced N-P-K fertilizer at quarter strength every 3-4 weeks in growing seasons, and every 6 weeks in winter. Water paperflower post-fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption while avoiding root burn through careful application.

Pruning: Paperflower flourishes with proper pruning, ideally in early spring. Focus on cutting dead stems for air circulation and shaping, ensuring cuts are made at healthy nodes. Regular pruning enhances flowering and maintains an attractive growth form, preventing the plant from becoming unruly.

Propagation: Paperflower should be propagated through cuttings in spring or summer. Although challenging for beginners, success is marked by new growth. Ensure consistently moist soil and proper drainage for optimal results.

Repotting: Paperflower flourishes when repotted every 2-3 years in spring. Use a slightly larger pot for root room, placing paperflower in bright, indirect light while maintaining slight soil moisture. Proper care promotes robust growth and longevity with minimal effort.

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Images of Paperflower

Distribution of Paperflower

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Paperflower

Care Guide for Paperflower

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