Bougainvillea sp. 'Mahara' (Bougainvillea)

Bougainvillea is a genus of vigorous flowering vines, shrubs, and small trees in the Nyctaginaceae family, native to South America, particularly Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. Celebrated for their spectacular displays of brilliant color, Bougainvilleas are among the world's most popular ornamental plants in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate climates. Depending on the species and growing conditions, they may climb 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 m) with support or be maintained as compact shrubs, hedges, standards, bonsai, or container specimens through regular pruning.

Their true flowers are small, tubular, and usually white or cream, but each is surrounded by three large, papery bracts that provide the vivid display. Bracts occur in shades of purple, magenta, pink, red, orange, yellow, white, or combinations of these colors, often covering the plant for months in warm climates. Bougainvilleas bloom most heavily in full sun and well-drained soil and become increasingly drought tolerant once established. They perform best when allowed to dry slightly between waterings and generally flower more profusely under bright, sunny conditions. Hardy in USDA Zones 9b-11, they are widely grown on trellises, fences, pergolas, walls, hanging baskets, and in large containers. Numerous species, hybrids, and cultivars are available, ranging from vigorous climbers to naturally compact forms with single, semi-double, or fully double colorful bracts.See article about Bougainvillea.

Bougainvillea 'Mahara' is a compact bougainvillea cultivar distinguished by its abundant clusters of vivid magenta to deep pink, double bracts that create a lush, ruffled appearance. Its naturally dense, well-branched growth and profuse flowering make it especially suitable for containers, patios, hanging baskets, and small garden spaces. It blooms freely over a long season in warm climates, often producing repeated flushes of color when grown in full sun.

This cultivar performs best in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought tolerant and responds well to light pruning, which helps maintain its compact habit and encourages additional flowering. Suitable for USDA zones 9b to 11, 'Mahara' is an excellent choice for colorful container displays, low trellises, and landscape accents where a smaller, double-bracted bougainvillea is desired.