Bougainvilleas: Pretty Ignored

Bougainvillea Spectabilis (Bunga Kertas) (Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

The bougainvillea was discovered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil by French naturalist Dr. Philibert Commerson in 1768. It is named after his close friend and ship's admiral Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, who commanded the ship in which Commerson was a passenger. Kew Gardens distributed the plants it had propagated to British colonies throughout the world.

(Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

When the three species, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Bougainvillea glabra and  Bougainvillea peruviana were grown together, many hybrid crosses were created. Currently, there are over 300 varieties of bougainvillea around the world.

Pink Bougainvillea (Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

In Malaysia, Bougainvillea tend to flower all year round. They grow best in somewhat dry, fertile soil. Bloom cycles are typically four to six weeks. Bougainvillea grow best in very bright full sun and with frequent fertilization, but the plant requires little water once established. If overwatered, this vibrantly colourful plant will not flower and may lose leaves or wilt, or even die from root decay. Bougainvillea can be easily propagated via tip cuttings.

White Bougainvillea (Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

 At SMK Majakir, bougainvilleas are commonly seen and has been an integral part of the school compound's landscape. There are a number of bougainvillea varieties around the school, as well as many species.

(Photo: Mahani)

(Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

(Photo: Fareed Abdullah)

(Photo: Mahani)