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A few months a year Old Town colours pink

If you've ever visited Marbella in the summer months, you may have noticed the vibrant, colorful flowers that seem to be everywhere in the city's old town. One of the most eye-catching of these flowers is the bougainvillea, a climbing plant with showy, brightly colored bracts that come in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the bougainvillea and explore why it's such a beloved plant in Marbella.

Table of contents

A Brief History of Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a genus of plants that includes several species, all of which are native to South America. The plant is named after French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville, who first discovered it during an expedition to Brazil in the 18th century. Today, bougainvillea is cultivated all over the world, especially in warm, dry climates like the Mediterranean.

Bougainvillea in Marbella old town

In Marbella, bougainvillea is a common sight in the city's old town, where it can be seen growing on walls, trellises, and fences. The plant is well-suited to the hot, dry climate of the region and is able to thrive even in poor, sandy soil. Bougainvillea is also a hardy plant that can withstand drought, making it a popular choice for landscaping in the area.

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

Bougainvillea Flowers in Marbella

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The Bracts of Bougainvillea

One of the most striking things about bougainvillea is its brightly colored bracts, which are often mistaken for flowers. In fact, the true flowers of the plant are small and white, and are surrounded by these papery, colorful bracts. The bracts are actually modified leaves that are used to attract pollinators and protect the plant's flowers.

Colors of Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea comes in a wide range of colors, from bright pink to deep purple to crisp white. Some varieties even have variegated or multicolored bracts, adding even more visual interest to the plant. The colors of bougainvillea can be so intense that they almost seem to glow in the sunlight, creating a striking contrast against the white walls and blue skies of Marbella.

Want them in your villa? Caring for Bougainvillea

If you're interested in growing bougainvillea at home, it's important to note that the plant does require some care and attention. Bougainvillea needs full sun and well-draining soil in order to thrive, and it should be watered regularly during the growing season. Pruning is also important to keep the plant from becoming too leggy or straggly.

Conclusion

In Marbella, bougainvillea is more than just a pretty flower – it's a symbol of the city's warm, sunny climate and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you're strolling through the old town or relaxing in a garden café, the bright, cheerful colors of bougainvillea are sure to lift your spirits and brighten your day.