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Closeup of Bougainvillea spectabilis sometimes referred to as 'paper flower' because the bracts are thin and papery.

Bugambilia or scientifically called the Bougainvilleas are popular ornamental plants in most areas with warm climates.

Bougainvilleas makes an excellent hot season plant, and its drought tolerance makes bougainvillea ideal for warm climates year-round. Bougainvillea has a high salt tolerance, which makes it a natural choice for color on coastal regions. As a woody clambering vine, bougainvillea will stand alone and can be pruned into a standard, but it is perfect along fence lines, on walls, in containers and hanging baskets, and as a hedge or an accent plant. Its long arching branches are thorny, and bear heart-shaped leaves and masses of papery bracts in white, pink, orange, purple, and burgundy. Many cultivars, including double flowered and variegated, is available.

The growth rate of bougainvillea vary from slow-growing to rapid, depending on the particular variety. Bougainvillea tend to flower all year round in equatorial regions. Elsewhere, they are seasonal bloomers. 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. As indoor houseplants in temperate regions, they can be kept small by bonsai techniques. If overwatered, bougainvillea will not flower and may lose leaves or wilt, or even die from root decay.

Now that we are approaching the month of May which is traditionally associated with flowers, there is no more visible flower blooming all over the land than bouganvilleas. In Singapore, the bouganvilleas that line the road to Changi Airport are in full bloom warming the heart of incoming and departing visitors.

One of the things that impresses a visitor coming to Singapore is how green and flowerful the city state is. It is no wonder it has been dubbed as the “Garden City.” From Changi Airport the drive to town is very pleasant as the road is beautifully lined with masses of bouganvillas in assorted colors but mostly purple of different shades.