Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’

Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’: A Vibrant Addition to Your Garden

Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ is a striking member of the Nyctaginaceae family, also known as the four o’clock family. This genus includes thorny ornamental vines, bushes, and trees that originate from eastern South America, spanning regions from Brazil to southern Argentina. The Bougainvillea genus is celebrated for its vibrant, colorful bracts that often outshine the actual flowers. The ‘Elizabeth Angus’ cultivar, in particular, is prized for its vivid purple bracts that add a splash of color to any landscape.

Description

Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ is a broadleaf evergreen that exhibits an impressive array of bright purple bracts throughout its blooming season. These bracts are not true petals but modified leaves that surround the plant’s small, white flowers. The contrast between the deep green foliage and the striking purple bracts is visually captivating.

• Scientific Name: Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’
• Common Name: Elizabeth Angus Bougainvillea
• Family: Nyctaginaceae
• Height: 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters)
• Width: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun
• Moisture: Medium
• Soil: Well-drained soil
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Hardiness Zones: 9-11
• Fall Color: Green
• Fragrance: None

Care Instructions for Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’:

Light Requirements: Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce abundant blooms.

Soil and Watering: Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Ensure medium watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering can lead to poor flowering and root diseases.

Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and midsummer. A high-phosphorus fertilizer can encourage blooming.

Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove spent blooms and any dead or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.

Winter Care: While Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ can tolerate temperatures down to 28°F (-2°C) for short periods, it is advisable to protect it from heavy frosts. In colder regions, grow in containers and bring indoors during winter.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventive measure. Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

Trellising: Train the plant along walls or fences using trellises. Bougainvillea climbs using its small, spiky thorns, which help it grip surfaces.

Propagation

Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ can be propagated through stem cuttings:

1. Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a semi-hardwood stem with at least three to four nodes.
2. Cut the Stem: Using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, cut a 6-8 inch (15-20 cm) stem just below a node.
3. Prepare the Cutting: Remove the leaves from the bottom of one or two nodes.
4. Rooting Medium: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. A mix of sand and peat works well.
5. Conditions for Rooting: Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect light. Maintain a temperature of 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
6. Moisture: Keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity.
7. Transplant: Once roots have developed (usually within 4-6 weeks), harden off the new plants before transplanting them outdoors or into larger containers.

Uses

Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ is versatile and can be used in various garden settings:

• Climbing Plant: Ideal for training along walls, fences, or trellises, creating a vibrant, living tapestry.
• Ornamental Tree: Can be pruned and trained into an ornamental tree form, adding structure and color to the garden.
• Low-growing Shrub: With regular pruning, it can be maintained as a low-growing shrub, perfect for garden borders.
• Container Gardening: Suitable for containers, allowing for easy relocation during colder months.

With its bold color, impressive form, and relatively low maintenance, Bougainvillea ‘Elizabeth Angus’ is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of tropical flair to their landscapes. Its ability to bloom throughout the spring, summer, and fall makes it a valuable addition to any garden.