Alexandra Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea Alexandra)

Alexandra Bougainvillea, also commonly known as ‘Alexandra’ paperflower, and botanically named Bougainvillea ‘Alexandra’, is a stunning tropical and subtropical vine renowned for its vibrant, long-lasting color displays. This vigorous grower offers a spectacular show of magenta-purple bracts, making it a favorite among gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet high-impact plant.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we provide comprehensive resources to help you successfully cultivate Bougainvillea varieties, including the exquisite Alexandra. Let’s delve into the specifics of Alexandra Bougainvillea care, including optimal growing tips, and explore how to purchase this beauty.

Alexandra Bougainvillea: A Comprehensive Overview

The allure of Alexandra Bougainvillea lies in its breathtaking display of color. Unlike many flowering plants, the true flowers of the Bougainvillea are small and white, almost inconspicuous. The vibrant hues we admire come from modified leaves called bracts. These bracts, in the case of ‘Alexandra’, are a rich, deep magenta-purple, creating a cascading waterfall of color that can transform any garden space. This cultivar is particularly prized for its compact growth habit compared to some other Bougainvillea varieties, making it suitable for smaller gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.

The origin of ‘Alexandra’ can be traced back to careful cultivation and selection, emphasizing its desirable traits like vibrant color, disease resistance, and manageable growth. While the precise lineage may be complex, it belongs to the Bougainvillea genus, a group of thorny ornamental vines, bushes, and trees native to South America, specifically Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. The genus was named after Louis Antoine de Bougainville, a French admiral and explorer.

‘Alexandra’ is known for its relatively long blooming season. In warm climates with consistent sunlight, it can bloom almost year-round, with peak displays often occurring in spring and fall. The intensity of the bract color can be influenced by factors such as sunlight exposure, temperature, and fertilization. More intense sunlight generally leads to deeper, richer coloration.

Beyond its visual appeal, Alexandra Bougainvillea offers several practical benefits. It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardening. Its thorny stems can also provide a natural security barrier when planted strategically along fences or walls. Furthermore, it attracts pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds, adding to the biodiversity of your garden. It is crucial to always plant it, at a suitable distance. According to research, planting Bougainvillea 5-6 ft from the house foundation is suitable.

Here’s a table summarizing key characteristics and profile of Alexandra Bougainvillea:

Botanical Name	Bougainvillea ‘Alexandra’
Common Names	Alexandra Bougainvillea, ‘Alexandra’ Paperflower
Bract Color	Deep Magenta-Purple
Flower Color	Small, White (inconspicuous)
Growth Habit	Compact, Vigorous Vine
Size	Typically 6-10 feet tall and wide, but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Bloom Time	Nearly year-round in warm climates; peak blooms in spring and fall.
Sunlight	Full Sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day)
Water Needs	Drought-tolerant once established; prefers well-drained soil.
USDA Hardiness Zones	9-11 (can be grown as an annual in colder climates)
Soil Preference	Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0)
Fertilizer	Balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer)
Pruning	Prune after flowering to shape and control size.
Pests and Diseases	Generally resistant, but can be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and root rot if overwatered.
Propagation	Stem cuttings (semi-hardwood or softwood)
Uses	Containers, hanging baskets, trellises, fences, ground cover (with support), espalier.
Toxicity	Sap can cause skin irritation, and thorns can cause injury. Exercise caution when handling. Though not listed as toxic to pets by the ASPCA, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Essential Care Guide for a Thriving Alexandra Bougainvillea

At Gardencenterpoint, we believe that successful gardening starts with understanding the specific needs of each plant. While Alexandra Bougainvillea is relatively low-maintenance, following these guidelines will ensure optimal growth and vibrant blooms.

Sunlight: The Key to Vibrant Color

Alexandra Bougainvillea, like all Bougainvilleas, is a sun-loving plant. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive and produce its characteristic vibrant bracts. Inadequate sunlight will result in reduced flowering, leggy growth, and pale bract color. A study by the University of Florida IFAS Extension highlights the direct correlation between sunlight exposure and pigment production in Bougainvillea bracts. They found that plants receiving less than 5 hours of direct sunlight exhibited significantly reduced anthocyanin levels, the pigments responsible for the vibrant colors.

• Optimal Placement: Choose a location that receives full sun, ideally south-facing in the Northern Hemisphere.
• Container Growing: If growing in a container, ensure it’s placed in the sunniest spot on your patio or balcony. Rotate the container periodically to ensure even light exposure.
• Indoor Growing (in colder climates): If growing indoors as a houseplant during winter, provide supplemental lighting with grow lights. Aim for 12-14 hours of bright, indirect light supplemented with direct sunlight if possible.

Watering: Finding the Right Balance

While drought-tolerant once established, Alexandra Bougainvillea does not like to be constantly dry, especially during its active growing season. The key is to find the right balance: allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but don’t let it completely dry out. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot, a serious fungal disease.

• Watering Frequency: This depends on several factors, including climate, temperature, humidity, soil type, and pot size (if applicable). A good rule of thumb is to water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Deep Watering: Water thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot (if applicable). This ensures that the entire root system is adequately hydrated.
• Drainage: Ensure the soil is well-draining. Bougainvilleas do not tolerate soggy soil. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or bark) around the base of the plant helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Water more frequently during hot, dry periods and less frequently during cooler, wetter periods. In winter, when growth slows down, reduce watering significantly.

Soil: The Foundation for Healthy Growth

Alexandra Bougainvillea prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Heavy clay soils that retain too much water are not suitable.

• Soil Testing: If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH or composition, a soil test is recommended. You can purchase a soil testing kit at most garden centers.
• Amending Soil: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter like compost, peat moss, or perlite to improve drainage and aeration.
• Container Mix: If growing in a container, use a high-quality potting mix specifically formulated for flowering plants. Avoid using garden soil in containers, as it tends to compact and impede drainage.

Fertilizing: Nourishing for Abundant Blooms

Alexandra Bougainvillea benefits from regular fertilization during the active growing season (spring and summer). This provides the nutrients necessary for vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. A fertilizer with a ratio like 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 is generally suitable. Alternatively, you can use a fertilizer specifically formulated for Bougainvilleas, which often contains micronutrients like iron and magnesium that are beneficial for bract color.
• Application Rate: Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully. Over-fertilizing can damage the plant and lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Frequency: Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter when growth slows down.
• Iron Supplement: If the leaves start to yellow (chlorosis), it may indicate an iron deficiency. You can apply a chelated iron supplement to correct this.

Pruning: Shaping and Controlling Growth

Pruning is essential for maintaining the desired shape and size of your Alexandra Bougainvillea and encouraging abundant flowering. Bougainvilleas bloom on new growth, so pruning after flowering stimulates new growth and subsequent blooms.

• Timing: The best time to prune is after the main flowering flush has finished. This is typically in late spring or early summer, but it can vary depending on your climate.
• Technique: Use sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. You can also prune to control the size and shape of the plant, remove crossing branches, and thin out dense growth to improve air circulation.
• Hard Pruning: If your Bougainvillea has become overgrown or leggy, you can perform a hard prune, cutting it back by up to one-third of its size. This will rejuvenate the plant and encourage new growth. However, be aware that hard pruning may delay flowering for a season.
• Wearing Gloves: Always wear gloves when pruning Bougainvillea, as the thorns can cause injury.

Propagation: Creating New Plants

Alexandra Bougainvillea can be propagated from stem cuttings, allowing you to easily create new plants.

• Timing: The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing.
• Cutting Type: Semi-hardwood or softwood cuttings are generally the most successful. Semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from the current season’s growth that has started to harden but is still somewhat flexible. Softwood cuttings are taken from the very tip of new growth.
• Cutting Length: Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long.
• Preparation: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
• Planting: Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
• Humidity: Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or humidity dome to create a humid environment.
• Rooting Time: Roots typically develop within 4-8 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, you can transplant them into individual pots or into the garden.

Pest and Disease Management: Keeping Your Plant Healthy

Alexandra Bougainvillea is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be susceptible to problems, especially if stressed.

• Common Pests: Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites can sometimes infest Bougainvilleas. These pests suck sap from the plant, weakening it and causing distorted growth.
• Pest Control: Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests. If you find any, you can often control them with a strong jet of water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
• Common Diseases: Root rot is the most common disease affecting Bougainvilleas, and it’s usually caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
• Disease Prevention: Ensure your Bougainvillea is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If root rot occurs, you may need to repot the plant in fresh soil and trim away any affected roots.
• Fungal Leaf Spot: Occasionally, fungal leaf spots may appear. These are usually not serious and can be managed by improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Planting and Transplanting Alexandra Bougainvillea

Proper planting is crucial for the long-term health and success of your Alexandra Bougainvillea.

Choosing the Right Location

As discussed earlier, choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) and has well-draining soil. Consider the mature size of the plant and ensure it has enough space to grow.

Planting in the Ground

1. Dig a Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
2. Amend the Soil: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
3. Remove the Plant: Carefully remove the plant from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.
4. Place the Plant: Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
5. Backfill: Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
6. Water Thoroughly: Water the plant deeply after planting.
7. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant.

Planting in a Container

1. Choose a Container: Select a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.
2. Potting Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix formulated for flowering plants.
3. Planting: Follow the same steps as planting in the ground, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the top of the potting mix.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
5. Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when you notice it outgrowing its pot.

Winter Care

Alexandra Bougainvillea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, it needs to be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.

• Overwintering Options:
  • Bring Indoors: You can bring your Bougainvillea indoors and grow it as a houseplant during the winter. Place it in a sunny location and provide supplemental lighting if necessary.
  • Dormancy: Allow the plant to go dormant by reducing watering and withholding fertilizer. Store it in a cool, dark place (like a garage or basement) where the temperature stays above freezing.
• Watering: Reduce watering significantly during the winter.
• Fertilizing: Do not fertilize during the winter.
• Pruning: Minimal, only for shape.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Lack of Flowers: This is usually caused by insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing (too much nitrogen), or improper pruning.
• Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies (especially iron), or root rot.
• Dropping Leaves: This can be caused by stress, such as sudden changes in temperature, overwatering, underwatering, or pest infestations.
• Leggy Growth: This is usually caused by insufficient sunlight.
• Pale Bract Color: This is often caused by insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiencies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Is Alexandra Bougainvillea poisonous?
  • A: The sap of Bougainvillea can cause skin irritation in some people, and the thorns can cause injury. It’s best to wear gloves when handling the plant. While not highly toxic, ingestion can cause mild stomach upset.
• Q: How fast does Alexandra Bougainvillea grow?
  • A: It’s a vigorous grower, and in ideal conditions, it can grow several feet per year.
• Q: Can I train Alexandra Bougainvillea to grow on a trellis or wall?
  • A: Yes, Bougainvilleas are excellent for growing on trellises, walls, fences, and other structures. You may need to tie the branches to the support initially, but they will eventually twine and climb on their own.
• Q: What is the difference between Alexandra Bougainvillea and other Bougainvillea varieties?
  • A: ‘Alexandra’ is known for its compact growth habit, deep magenta-purple bracts, and relatively long blooming season. Other varieties may have different bract colors, growth habits, and bloom times.
• Q: Where can I buy an Alexandra Bougainvillea?
  • A: Gardencenterpoint.com is a hub connecting you to reputable nurseries and garden centers that offer a wide selection of plants, including Alexandra Bougainvillea. We provide a platform to compare prices, find local sources, and access expert advice, ensuring you receive healthy, high-quality plants.

Exploring More at Gardencenterpoint.com

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we are passionate about helping you create the garden of your dreams. We offer a wealth of resources beyond Alexandra Bougainvillea, including:

• Plant Database: Explore our extensive plant database, featuring detailed information on a wide variety of plants, including their care requirements, growing tips, and characteristics.
• Gardening Guides: Access our comprehensive gardening guides, covering topics such as soil preparation, watering techniques, pest and disease management, and more.
• Tool Reviews: Read our unbiased reviews of gardening tools and equipment, helping you make informed purchasing decisions.
• Community Forum: Join a thriving online forum where fellow gardeners ask questions, seek advice and show off their blooms.
• Local Nursery Finder: Find reputable nurseries and garden centers near you that offer the plants and supplies you need.
• Similar Plant Recommendations: If you love the look of Bougainvillea, be sure to explore other flowering vines and shrubs!

We encourage you to explore our website and discover the many ways we can help you cultivate a beautiful and thriving garden. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from choosing the right plants to providing the knowledge and resources you need to succeed. Remember, Gardencenterpoint.com is your trusted partner in creating the outdoor space you’ve always envisioned. We are not a retailer, but a comprehensive hub connecting you to the best resources and plant providers. Let’s grow together.