The genus comprises around 18 species, of which Bougainvillea glabra and Bougainvillea spectabilis have been used to obtain numerous hybrids. They are climbing flowering shrubs with thorny stems, native to South America. The blooms grow in clusters, the flowers are small, tubular, white, protected by red, pink or purple bracts. It is common as a decorative indoor potted plant because it does not overwinter in temperate climates.