'La Jolla' Bougainvillea

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 8–12 feet (with support)
Spread: 6–8 feet
Flower Color: deep magenta-red (bracts)
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’: Rich Magenta-Red Blooms for a Compact, Colorful Display

Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’ is a vibrant, more compact bougainvillea variety prized for its deep magenta-red bracts that bloom heavily through the warm months. Its moderate size, controlled growth habit, and intense color make it a versatile choice for smaller gardens, courtyards, and patio containers while still delivering the dramatic bougainvillea look.

Key Features of Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’

• Brilliant, Long-Lasting Color: Dense clusters of magenta-red bracts provide months of vivid color.
• Compact Growth: More restrained in size than other bougainvillea varieties, making it easier to manage in smaller spaces.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in Arizona’s sun and heat with minimal water once established.
• Versatile Habit: Can be grown as a climbing vine, trimmed into a shrub, or used in large containers.

Growing and Care Tips

‘La Jolla’ offers the same toughness as larger bougainvilleas but with a growth habit that’s easier to control.

Soil: Requires well-draining soil; sandy or loamy mixes preferred.
Water: Water regularly during establishment; once mature, water less frequently to encourage blooming.
Fertilizer: Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring and midsummer to promote flowers over foliage.
Pruning: Light pruning after each bloom cycle will help maintain shape and stimulate new flowering growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Small-Space Climber: Perfect for training up smaller trellises, fences, or arbors.
• Hedge or Border: Makes a vibrant low hedge or flowering border when pruned regularly.
• Container Planting: Excellent choice for large pots in sunny patios or poolside areas.
• Accent Plant: Adds an intense color statement in mixed landscape designs.

Summary

Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’ is the perfect choice for those who love bougainvillea’s bold color but want a more compact, manageable plant. With its heat tolerance, drought resistance, and long bloom season, it’s ideal for Arizona landscapes and container gardens.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun is essential for maximum bloom production.
Soil: Must be well-draining; amend clay soils with sand or grit.
Spacing: Space 6–8 feet apart for hedging or along fences.
Planting Depth: Plant root crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Provide a trellis or structure for climbing, or prune regularly for shrub form.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply at planting to saturate roots.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Apply 1–2 inches of water per session.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically established after 3–4 months of consistent watering and strong new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10–14 days; allow soil to dry between waterings.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1–2 emitters 12–18 inches from the base.
Flow Rate: Use 1-gallon-per-hour emitters.
Number of Emitters: One for young plants; two for mature plants.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering slightly during extreme summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Bougainvillea ‘La Jolla’:

• Soil Check: Let the top 2–3 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water reduces blooming and increases leafy growth.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of gravel mulch to conserve moisture but keep it away from the crown.