Bougainvillea Bambino™ Zuki

Common Name: Bambino Zuki Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea Bambino™ ‘Zuki’)

Description:
Bambino Zuki is a compact, variegated bougainvillea prized for its claret-red bracts and year-round interest. The lush foliage displays silver-green leaves edged in cream, with new growth flushed with burgundy and pink tones. In Melbourne’s warm climate, it blooms prolifically from spring through to autumn, with flowering often continuing into cooler months in moderate sites. It prefers a warm position in full sun to part shade, with well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Once established, it becomes drought tolerant, though occasional watering during dry spells boosts bloom production. Light pruning after flowering keeps the plant tidy and promotes fresh growth and more flowers. Ideal for pots, hanging baskets, small hedges, topiary, or trained on a stake.

Form:

• Shrub – Medium

• Climber (perfect for pots, baskets or small standards)

Mature Size:

• Height: 0.6–0.9 m

• Width: 0.6–0.9 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

• Flowers in Summer

• Flowers in Autumn

• Blooms for much of the year

Flower Colour:

• Claret red bracts

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots & Containers

• Variegated foliage (silver‑green with cream margins and burgundy new growth)

• Disease Resistant / Low‑maintenance

• Bird Attracting

• Bee Attracting

• Perennial

• Evergreen in mild climates

• Suitable for Hedging

• Suitable for Topiary

• Suitable for Standards

• Drought Tolerant once established

• Compact size ideal for small gardens

• Thorny (but manageable)

Toxicity:

• Not known to be toxic to humans or pets; thorns may cause minor skin irritation.

Companion Plants:

• Lavender – complements variegated foliage and bright bracts

• Salvia – extends flowering season and attracts pollinators

• Agapanthus – contrasting foliage structure

• Dwarf Grevillea – enhances native feel and attracts birds