As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered bougainvillea numerous times and can provide you with a detailed answer to your question. Bougainvillea, also known as paper flower, is a versatile plant that possesses characteristics of both a climber and a bush. However, it is commonly seen as a climber due to its tendency to climb over structures in our surroundings.
Bougainvillea has a unique growth habit that allows it to creep, climb, and colonize large areas very quickly. It has long, flexible branches with thorns that aid in its climbing ability. When left untrained, bougainvillea will naturally grow as a sprawling bush with branches spreading in all directions. However, with proper support and guidance, it can be trained to climb on trellises, fences, walls, or pergolas.
One of the reasons bougainvillea is often considered a climber is its strong and vigorous growth. It can quickly reach heights of up to 30 feet or more if provided with suitable support. Its branches have a tendency to twine around structures, allowing the plant to climb and cover large vertical spaces.
Personal Experience:
I have witnessed the climbing nature of bougainvillea in my own garden. When I initially planted a young bougainvillea, it grew as a bush with its branches spreading in all directions. However, as it matured, I trained it to climb on a trellis against a wall. Over time, the plant adapted to its support structure and started climbing upwards, covering the entire wall with its vibrant flowers.
Another characteristic of bougainvillea that supports its classification as a climber is its ability to cling onto surfaces. The plant has aerial rootlets that can attach itself to walls or other structures, aiding in its climbing process. These rootlets help bougainvillea to anchor itself securely and climb even more efficiently.
Despite its climbing tendencies, bougainvillea can also be grown as a bush. With regular pruning and shaping, it can be maintained as a compact and bushy plant. This is particularly useful for those who prefer a more contained and controlled growth habit. By trimming back the long, trailing branches and encouraging lateral growth, bougainvillea can be shaped into a dense and bushy form.
To summarize, while bougainvillea possesses characteristics of both a climber and a bush, it is commonly seen and classified as a climber due to its natural tendency to climb and cover structures. Its ability to creep, climb, and colonize large areas quickly, along with its thorny branches and aerial rootlets, support its climbing nature. However, with proper pruning and training, bougainvillea can also be maintained as a compact and bushy plant.
