Bougainvillea Dwarf is a compact variety of the popular Bougainvillea plant, known for its vibrant, colorful bracts and ability to thrive in various climates. Unlike its larger counterparts, the dwarf Bougainvillea maintains a more manageable size, making it suitable for smaller gardens, containers, or as a decorative accent.

Key Characteristics of Bougainvillea Dwarf

1. Appearance:

   • Flowers: The plant does not actually produce flowers but rather vibrant, colorful bracts that surround the tiny white flowers. These bracts come in a variety of colors, such as magenta, pink, purple, orange, and red.
   • Leaves: The leaves of the dwarf variety are typically small, dark green, and oval-shaped.

    

2. Growth Habit:

   • It has a bushy, compact growth habit, making it ideal for small spaces or container gardening.
   • It may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.

Growing Conditions for Bougainvillea Dwarf

1. Soil:

   • Prefers well-draining soil, such as sandy loam.
   • It does not do well in overly moist or heavy clay soils.

2. Light:

   • Bougainvillea Dwarf thrives in full sunlight and requires at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal blooming.
   • It can tolerate some light shade, but less sun may reduce the intensity of the bract colors.

3. Watering:

   • It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but prefers regular watering during the growing season.
   • Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. Overwatering should be avoided.

4. Temperature:

   • Bougainvillea Dwarf is a tropical plant and prefers warm temperatures. It grows best in temperatures between 60-95°F (15-35°C).
   • It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or moved indoors in cooler climates.

Care and Maintenance

1. Pruning:

   • Regular pruning helps to maintain the desired shape and encourage more blooms. You can prune after flowering to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
   • Prune to remove any dead or damaged stems and encourage bushier growth.

2. Fertilizing:

   • Bougainvillea Dwarf benefits from light feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
   • Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can result in more leaf growth and fewer flowers