Bold And Beautiful

Colourful, versatile and easy to grow, bougainvilleas are now available in new compact varieties

- Marianne Alexander

Bougainvilleas are often considered overly vigorous. This is true of some of the older varieties, which, if left to their own devices, can form dense, impenetrable masses. The good news is that there are some exciting, compact varieties that are suitable for smaller gardens. These are just as floriferous, easy to grow and some, such as the Vera range from Arnelia, are even thornless. In addition to the usual dazzling vivid red, orange and yellows, there are new pastel shades and some with variegated foliage.

WHY GROW THEM

For their mass of colour; the new soft pastels are cooling, while those with brilliant primary colours add a tropical feel.

They are drought tolerant, easy to grow, trouble free and virtually pest and disease free.

They are fast growing and flower on and off throughout the year with good displays in spring.