Caribbean Flowers Series - Bougainvillea

The Paper Flower


The detail of a red Bougainvillea's receptacle and flower

The Bougainvillea vine originates from Brazil and was discovered in 1768 by Louis de Bougainvillea. The vine beauty comes not from the small white tubular flowers, but from three incandescent bracts that surround each flower. This modified leave can simulate a petal and is deceptive to protect the Bougainvillea's inconspicuous flower.

In Trinidad and Tobago the Bougainvillea serves to beautify your propriety under the presence of keeping thieves out. The thorny vine is an apt defense to detour intruders.