Purple Bougainvillea Espalier

Plant Type: Evergreen Vine/Shrub (trained as espalier)
Plant Height: 10-20 feet (trained size depends on support)
Spread: 6-12 feet
Flower Color: Deep purple bracts with tiny white flowers
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Purple Bougainvillea Espalier: Rich Color in a Space-Saving Form

The Purple Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea brasiliensis) is a vigorous climber admired for its intense purple bracts that cover the plant from spring through fall. When trained as an espalier, this plant brings both color and structure to Arizona landscapes, transforming plain walls, trellises, or fences into dramatic garden features. Its drought tolerance and minimal maintenance needs make it a reliable performer in the Phoenix Valley.

Key Features of Purple Bougainvillea Espalier

• Brilliant Purple Color: Masses of long-lasting purple bracts appear for months in warm weather.
• Espalier Design: Trained flat against walls or trellises, creating a formal, space-saving option.
• Heat & Drought Tolerance: Thrives in full sun and Arizona heat with minimal supplemental water.
• Fast Growing: Quickly covers vertical surfaces with lush foliage and blooms.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; amend clay-heavy soil for improved drainage.
• Water: Moderate water during establishment; very low once mature.
• Pruning: Light pruning after bloom cycles promotes fresh growth and maintains espalier shape.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to around 30°F; frost may damage foliage, but plants typically rebound in spring.

Landscaping Uses

• Espalier Walls: Adds vivid purple color and structure to walls, fences, or trellises.
• Entryways & Courtyards: Provides a dramatic vertical accent near patios or doorways.
• Accent Plant: Works as a show-stopping focal point in xeriscapes and Mediterranean-style gardens.
• Containers: Can be grown in large pots with support for smaller spaces.

Summary

The Purple Bougainvillea Espalier combines brilliant color with architectural form. Perfect for Arizona homeowners seeking bold vertical interest, it thrives with little care, offering months of blooms and evergreen appeal in a space-saving design.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Purple Bougainvillea Espalier Planting Guide

Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for best flowering.
Soil: Well-drained soil; amend with sand or compost if heavy.
Spacing: Plant 6-10 feet apart along walls or trellises.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Train against trellises, wires, or masonry to maintain espalier form.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: 3-5 gallons per watering, depending on plant size.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Typically 6-9 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days. Increase to weekly during extreme heat for maximum blooming.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is absent.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 12-18 inches from the base, along espalier line.
• Flow Rate: 1-2 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 per plant for even watering.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase during bloom-heavy months; reduce during winter.

General Watering Tips for Purple Bougainvillea Espalier

• Soil Check: Water when soil is dry 3-4 inches deep.
• Encourage Blooms: Allowing slight drought stress promotes heavier flowering.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture encourages leafy growth with fewer flowers.
• Mulch: Use gravel or rock mulch to conserve moisture and emphasize the plant’s color; avoid wood mulch at the crown.