Barbara Karst Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea 'Barbara Karst'
Barbara Karst Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea 'Barbara Karst'
- Bougainvillea ‘Barbara Karst’ is one of the most popular and vibrant bougainvillea varieties, known for its intense magenta red color and vigorous growth. The bold, papery bracts create a nearly nonstop display of color through the warmer months, making it a standout in any sunny landscape.
- This variety has a strong, fast growing habit and can be trained in a number of ways. It works beautifully as a climbing vine on walls, fences, and trellises, but can also be shaped into a large shrub, hedge, or even grown in containers. Its versatility makes it a great choice for adding vertical interest or creating a colorful focal point.
- Bougainvillea ‘Barbara Karst’ thrives in full sun and performs best in well drained soil. It is highly drought tolerant once established and actually blooms more heavily when given less frequent water. Too much water or fertilizer can lead to more foliage and fewer blooms, so a lighter hand often produces the best results.
- It can grow quite large over time, often reaching 15 to 25 feet or more depending on how it is trained and maintained. It is well suited for USDA zones 9 through 11 and should be protected from frost.
- While the true flowers are small and tucked within the bracts, they do attract pollinators such as bees.
- Bougainvillea is not considered highly toxic, but the sap can cause mild skin irritation, and the thorns can be sharp, so it is best to plant with some space from walkways or high traffic areas.
- It is generally deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good option for low maintenance, drought tolerant landscapes.
- With its bold color, fast growth, and ability to thrive in tough conditions, ‘Barbara Karst’ is a go to choice for adding long lasting impact to warm climate gardens.
Foliage:
Evergreen
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun (6+ Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Water Needs:
Low,
Low to Moderate
Form:
Prostrate
Mature Width:
11-15'
Mature Height:
18-22'
Proper planting technique will help your plants thrive! Follow these simple steps to help your plants establish quickly, develop a strong root system, and live longer:
- Properly dig the hole
- Amend the soil to suit each particular plant
- Place the plant and backfill the soil
- Provide ample water for each particular plant
- Review our how to plant guide!
For detailed information, please download our planting guides: