Description
Bougainvillea Bambino® 'Bilas' is part of the popular Bambino range of smaller-growing bougainvilleas, bred to provide the spectacular colour of traditional bougainvilleas in a more manageable form. With its compact shrub-like habit and colourful bracts, 'Bilas' is suitable for garden beds, large pots, courtyards and informal hedging. It can also be lightly pruned to maintain a more structured shape or allowed to develop naturally as a flowering garden shrub. The Bambino range is generally smaller than traditional vigorous bougainvillea climbers, although mature size varies between individual cultivars and growing conditions. For 'Bilas', a practical website size guide is approximately 1.5–2m high and 1.5–2m wide rather than giving a falsely precise cultivar measurement. Mature height: approximately 1.5–2m Mature width: approximately 1.5–2m Position: Full sun to part shade Habit: Compact shrub Flowering: Repeated flowering during warm conditions For the best flowering, plant Bambino 'Bilas' in a position with plenty of sunlight and good drainage. Bougainvilleas generally flower most heavily when they receive strong light and are not overwatered. This variety can be used as a colourful feature plant in a large container or incorporated into a garden bed where a flowering shrub is required. With pruning, it can also be maintained as a low informal hedge or shaped specimen. Water regularly while establishing, then reduce watering once the plant has developed a strong root system. Avoid waterlogged soil, particularly in heavy clay. In pots, use a good-quality, free-draining potting mix. A light prune after a flowering flush can help maintain a tidy shape and encourage fresh growth. Feed with a suitable flowering or balanced fertiliser during active growth. Bambino 'Bilas' is a good choice when you want the bold colour and tropical character of bougainvillea while keeping the plant more manageable than many traditional climbing varieties.
