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Description
Bougainvillea California Gold is a stunning and popular ornamental plant known for its beautiful golden yellow bracts that surround small white flowers. It is native to South America and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including California. This perennial plant blooms throughout the year and can grow up to 15 feet tall, making it an ideal choice for hedges, fences, and trellises.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Bougainvillea |
Appearance
Bougainvillea California Gold has bright green leaves that are ovate and pointed, and its flowers are small and white. However, the real attraction of this plant is its bracts, which are bright, golden yellow in color and can be up to 3 inches long. The bracts are papery and thin, but they provide a stunning contrast to the green leaves and white flowers. Bougainvillea California Gold is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it a perfect choice for creating a stunning wall of color.
Care Guide
Bougainvillea California Gold is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
Water: Bougainvillea California Gold prefers well-draining soil and does not like to sit in water, so make sure to water it thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: Bougainvillea California Gold requires regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two to three months.
Soil: Bougainvillea California Gold prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to plant it in a location that provides good drainage.
Sunlight: Bougainvillea California Gold requires full sun to thrive and produce its vibrant bracts. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Bougainvillea California Gold is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bougainvillea California Gold is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to yellow and wilt. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Mealybugs: These insects are small, white, and waxy and can cause a sticky residue on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil provides good drainage.
Habitat
Bougainvillea California Gold is native to South America and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including California. It prefers warm, tropical climates and requires full sun to thrive. Bougainvillea California Gold can be grown in a variety of locations, including as a potted plant or in the ground. It is an ideal choice for creating a stunning wall of color or for adding a tropical touch to your garden.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Bougainvillea California Gold?
A: Bougainvillea California Gold prefers well-draining soil and does not like to sit in water, so make sure to water it thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: How tall can Bougainvillea California Gold grow?
A: Bougainvillea California Gold can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Bougainvillea California Gold?
A: Bougainvillea California Gold is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What is the difference between a bract and a flower?
A: A bract is a modified leaf that is often brightly colored and serves to attract pollinators. A flower is the reproductive structure of the plant that produces seeds.
Related Plants
- Bougainvillea Spectabilis
- Bougainvillea Glabra
- Bougainvillea Barbara Karst
- Bougainvillea Crimson Jewel
References
- “Bougainvillea California Gold.” Monrovia. Accessed September 25, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1145/california-gold-bougainvillea/.
- “Bougainvillea Species.” Floridata. Accessed September 25, 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Nyctaginaceae/Bougainvillea%20species/137.
- “Bougainvillea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 25, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/popular/bougainvillea/details.
