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Bouvardia, with its clusters of tubular, star-shaped flowers, brings an elegant charm to any space. Native to Mexico and Central America, this flowering plant is beloved for its long-lasting blooms, which range in color from white and pink to red and even coral. Often grown as a houseplant or a garden accent in warmer climates, Bouvardia adds a burst of color and a light, sweet fragrance — making it a favorite for bouquets and floral displays. Ready to help your Bouvardia thrive? Let’s dive into its care needs!

Lighting

Bouvardia loves bright, indirect light. Place it near a sunny window where it gets 4-6 hours of sunlight each day, such as an east or west-facing window. Avoid harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves, but don’t let it sit in deep shade — too little light leads to fewer blooms and leggy growth. If growing outdoors, choose a spot with partial sun and some shelter from strong winds.

Watering

Bouvardia enjoys consistent moisture — but don’t let it sit in soggy soil. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry. During the active growing season (spring and summer), this might mean watering once or twice a week, depending on temperature and humidity. In fall and winter, when growth slows, cut back on watering to prevent root rot.

Tip: Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots, especially if the plant has been basking in warmth.

Soil and Potting

For happy roots, Bouvardia thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss works perfectly, ensuring good aeration and moisture retention without becoming waterlogged. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from collecting at the bottom.

Temperature and Humidity

Bouvardia prefers warm temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) — typical indoor conditions are ideal. Protect it from chilly drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as cold stress can cause leaf drop.

While Bouvardia doesn’t demand high humidity, it enjoys a bit of extra moisture in the air. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider misting the plant lightly or placing it near a humidifier to keep it happy and blooming.

Fertilizing

To keep the blooms coming, Bouvardia benefits from regular feeding. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer. A fertilizer formulated for flowering plants (higher phosphorus content) can encourage even more vibrant blooms.

In fall and winter, when the plant slows down, hold off on fertilizing until the next growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning Bouvardia is key to maintaining a bushy, compact shape and encouraging new blooms. After flowering, trim back spent flowers and lightly prune the stems to promote fresh growth. If your Bouvardia becomes leggy, cut the stems back by about one-third in early spring — new shoots will quickly appear.

Propagation

Want more Bouvardia plants? Propagation is simple!

• Stem Cuttings: In spring or early summer, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in moist potting mix or water. Roots typically develop within 2-3 weeks. Once rooted, pot it up and watch it flourish!

Common Issues and Solutions

• Yellowing leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil and adjust your watering routine.
• Drooping stems: This could indicate underwatering or exposure to cold temperatures. Ensure the plant is hydrated and in a warm, sheltered spot.
• Lack of blooms: Not enough light or nutrients may be to blame. Move your Bouvardia to a brighter spot and resume feeding with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies — especially if the plant is stressed. Wipe the leaves with soapy water or treat with insecticidal soap if needed.

Is Bouvardia Pet-Friendly?

Unfortunately, Bouvardia is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep this blooming beauty out of reach from curious cats and dogs to keep them safe.