How to grow Bougainvillea and what to watch out for - is it really carcinogenic?
Bougainvillea is also known as paper flower, triangular flower, and leafy bougainvillea, but none of these names are the author's favorite. The author's favorite alternative name for it is South American purple jasmine - doesn't that sound much more elegant? It is an evergreen climbing shrub that likes warm, humid environments. It is not cold-hardy and can only overwinter safely in environments above 5°C. So what are the growing methods and precautions for Bougainvillea? Is it true that it causes cancer? Let's take a look together with the author from Tuliu.com~
I. Growing methods and precautions for Bougainvillea
1. Soil selection
Bougainvillea is a plant that is relatively tolerant of waterlogging and has no particularly strict requirements for soil. To help Bougainvillea grow better and produce more attractive flowers, we should find it some fairly fertile, loose soil, ideally slightly acidic. However, do remember that clay soil is not acceptable.
2. Planting time
Generally, the most suitable season for propagation is from March to June, and cuttings are mostly used for propagation. In the Hangzhou area, it is best to take cuttings from May to June, before the plum rain season begins.
3. Temperature regulation
The most suitable living environment temperature for Bougainvillea should be kept between 15°C and 30°C. In summer, shade measures should also be taken. If the season's temperature is hotter than usual, water should also be promptly sprinkled on the ground around it and on its leaves to cool it down, while maintaining ventilation. In winter, the temperature for growing Bougainvillea should not be lower than 6°C, and it is best to move it into a warm room to help it overwinter safely.
4. Light intensity
Except for newly planted seedlings that need to be placed in a semi-shaded spot for a period of time, at all other times it should be given sufficient light, especially in the colder winter, when it is best to ensure it gets no less than about 8 hours of sunlight per day.
5. Water management
When growing Bougainvillea, the soil in the pot needs to be kept in a moist state at all times.
II. Does Bougainvillea cause cancer?
1. It does not cause cancer
Bougainvillea does not cause cancer. The claim that it causes cancer is a rumor. However, it is true that it is somewhat toxic, but as long as you do not eat it raw, there is no problem.
2. It is somewhat toxic
Although it does not cause cancer, using 12-20 pieces of Bougainvillea stems and leaves can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and bloody stools. It is still somewhat toxic. If there are children at home, you should be especially careful.
3. It has some medicinal properties
Every medicine has some toxicity, and similarly Bougainvillea can also be used as medicine. Pounding the leaves of Bougainvillea into a paste and applying it to the affected area can reduce swelling and promote blood circulation to remove blood stasis. Bougainvillea flowers can also be used to treat irregular menstruation and blood stasis amenorrhea.
Alright, that is all the content brought to you today by the author from Tuliu.com. So do you all know the growing methods and precautions for Bougainvillea now? After reading this article, you will definitely be able to grow your own Bougainvillea well. Be sure to read it carefully. Love you all.