Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea

Scientific name: Bougainvillea glabra / spectabilis

Family: Nyctaginaceae

Common names: Bougainvillea, Paper Flower, Bugambilia

🔹 Uses

Ornamental → gardens, walls, terraces

Medicinal → leaves & flowers for diarrhea, cough, diabetes

Hedges/fencing → thorny branches

Decorative → garlands, festive decoration

🔹 Ecological Role

Provides partial shade

Adds organic matter to soil

Shelter & nesting for small birds

Moderate carbon sequestration

Attracts pollinators (bees, butterflies, hummingbirds)

🔹 Fun Facts

Bright bracts, actual flowers are tiny & white

Named after explorer Bougainville

Hardy, drought-tolerant, grows in poor soils

Often trained as a small tree or shrub

🔹 Cultural Significance

Symbol of welcome, hospitality, and festivity

Used in **temple decoration & festivals in India