Differences between Azalea and Bougainvillea
In courtyard greenery and urban landscaping, Azaleas and Bougainvilleas are often confused due to their similar brilliant flower colors. As two extremely ornamental flowering plants, they have significant biological differences. This article provides a multi-dimensional comparative analysis to help gardening enthusiasts accurately identify these two common flowers.
Comparison of Plant Morphological Features
Difference in Leaf Structure
Azalea leaves are elliptical-ovate, 1.5-5 cm long and 0.5-3 cm wide. Their unique feature is that the leaf surface is covered with rough short hair, and the back of the leaf is densely covered with brown绒毛, which can effectively reduce water evaporation.
Bougainvillea leaves are ovate-elliptical, reaching 5-10 cm in length. Adult plant leaves have a smooth surface without hair, with only occasional short soft hair on the back of seedlings. The larger leaf area makes it more photosynthetically efficient.
Comparison of Flower Structure
Azaleas bloom from April to May, with a broad funnellike corolla diameter of 3-5 cm and flower colors covering 6 major color systems. The base of their petals has a nectar gland mark, which is an important feature to attract pollinating insects.
Differences between Azalea and Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea has a flowering period of half a year (June to December), with three bracts forming a triangular appearance. The actual flower is small and tubular, with white flowers hidden in the center of the colorful bracts, making it have an ultra-long ornamental period.
Comparison of Fruit Characteristics
Azalea fruit is ovate, about 1 cm long, with a surface densely covered with rough hair, and automatically splits to release seeds in October when mature. This fruit structure is conducive to seed wind dispersal.
Bougainvillea has a very low fruiting rate, with瘦果 in the shape of a pentagon, wrapped in leathery bracts. In artificial cultivation, it is mainly propagated through cutting, with weak natural reproductive ability.
By observing the leaf texture, flowering period, and corolla shape, the two plants can be quickly distinguished. Azaleas are suitable for acidic soil environments, while Bougainvillea has stronger drought resistance. Mastering these differences helps with scientific maintenance and landscape matching, fully utilizing their ornamental advantages.