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purple bougainvillea

The vibrant colour and prolific blooms of purple bougainvillea have made it a beloved choice for gardens across New Zealand. Whether you’re chasing that Mediterranean feel or want to brighten up a wall, fence, or pergola, purple bougainvillea delivers dazzling cascades of magenta and purple bracts throughout much of the year. Perfectly suited for both container gardening or as a climbing feature plant, this striking climber thrives in sunny, free-draining spots and rewards with an abundance of colour with minimal fuss.

Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow' pink flowers with variegated and cream foliage.

Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow'

5 from 6 customers

Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow' is a spectacular and colourful climber. This Bougainvillea features rich, purple flowers which are held amidst the lush foliage which is variegated green and cream. It typically grows to 5 m tall and 4 m wide but is usually trimmed to control growth. Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow' is perfect for training over an arch or gazebo or allowing to ramble along a fence. Where it doesn’t have a support structure it will grow as a colourful groundcover and can be used for planting on a bank or the like.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Climbers
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 5.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Arches, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' purple-pink flowers and variegated foliage.

Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

Bougainvillea ‘Purple Patch’ is a dazzling climbing plant that delivers an abundance of rich purple bracts through the warmer months. Perfect for brightening fences, pergolas, and garden walls, it brings tropical vibrancy and structure to New Zealand gardens. This hardy and low-maintenance variety thrives in full sun and provides months of eye-catching colour, making it a standout choice for sunny outdoor spaces.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Climbers
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Arches, Containers, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acaena, Anthurium, Bougainvillea, Corylus, Dodonaea, Fagus, Fraxinus, Hoya, Lavandula, Lavender, Leptinella, Liriope Mesembryanthemum and Salvia, or related Categories - Deciduous Climbers, Evergreen Climbers, Grasses, Groundcover Plants, Indoor Plants, Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs Succulents and Deciduous Trees.

Search purple bougainvillea

Why Choose Purple Bougainvillea?

Purple bougainvillea is renowned for its vivid, long-lasting floral displays. Unlike many other flowering climbers, its “flowers” are actually colourful bracts that surround tiny, cream-white blooms. These bracts create a lush, purple spectacle that’s hard to miss, providing months of interest and excellent curb appeal. Bougainvilleas, particularly the purple varieties, are also low maintenance and drought tolerant once established, making them ideal for New Zealand’s often dry summers.

Best Purple Bougainvillea Varieties for Your Garden

There are several sought-after varieties of purple bougainvillea, each offering unique hues and characteristics. If you prefer a classic, strong purple, consider Bougainvillea 'Pretty Purple', known for its vigorous growth and prolific deep violet bracts. For a vibrant splash and compact habit, Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' is a superb option. If you like to mix things up, Bougainvillea 'Tropical Rainbow' features gorgeous variegated foliage alongside its delightful coloured bracts, creating an even more eye-catching display.

How to Grow and Care for Purple Bougainvillea

Getting the most from your purple bougainvillea starts with a sunny position and well-drained soil. These sun-loving climbers will reward you with the brightest blooms when given at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Bougainvillea dislike wet feet, so be sure to plant in free-draining soil or raised beds. Once established, they require very little water and are relatively pest-free. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage gorgeous, repeat blooms.

Creative Ways to Use Purple Bougainvillea in Your Garden

Purple bougainvillea is highly versatile and ideal for adding colour and vertical interest to garden spaces. Train it along fences or up trellises for a dynamic living wall, or let it flow over an archway for a Mediterranean look. For smaller spaces, bougainvillea is perfect in large containers where you can control its size and shape. Want to experiment with different colours and textures? Pair purple bougainvillea with related varieties such as Bougainvillea 'Plum Crazy' or the prolific Bougainvillea 'Magnifica Traillii' for a truly stunning effect.

Purple bougainvillea is the ultimate solution for gardeners seeking lasting colour and effortless style. Discover your favourite variety and transform your landscape with these striking climbers today.


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