Bougainvillea, Revisited: A Memory in Bloom

I sought our host and uncharacteristically said, "this is high life.” I’d tell you why.

The bougainvillea is a vibrant cascade of color ("They come in an array of lollipop colors," says Shahnaz Habib in lithub.com), often adorning the walls and gardens of opulent homes, symbolizing both beauty and prestige. This ornamental plant, with its signature papery bracts that range in hues from deep purples to fiery reds, was named after French admiral and explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville. It was during his historic circumnavigation of the globe in the 18th century that his ship’s botanist, Philibert Commerçon, first documented the plant.

Native to South America, particularly from Brazil to Peru and southern Argentina, the bougainvillea’s journey across the world began shortly after its discovery. Its ease of cultivation and stunning appearance made it a favorite for spreading to other tropical and warm climates. By the 19th century, it had reached Europe, and from there, it quickly spread to colonies and other regions, including Australia.

The association of bougainvillea with wealth can be traced back to its use in private gardens of the affluent, where its lush, sprawling growth could be maintained by gardeners. Its ability to thrive in warm climates meant that it was often seen in Mediterranean and Californian mansions, as well as in tropical resorts and exclusive estates. The plant’s robust nature, requiring minimal care to produce a spectacular display, made it a symbol of both luxury and an idyllic lifestyle, often found climbing the walls of grandiose villas and high-end residential areas.