Bougainvillea enjoys widespread cultivation across China, prized for its vibrant colors, easy maintenance, and high ornamental value. It is a common sight in urban landscaping throughout the country. While traditional varieties are red and purple, ongoing breeding advances have introduced a richer palette including white, pink, and apricot hues, significantly enhancing the plant’s visual appeal and market attractiveness.
© Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co
Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co., Ltd. has been engaged in bougainvillea production for over a decade. Operating from a 200-plus hectare (over 2,000 mu) base, the company produces approximately 21 million bougainvillea plants annually.
“We have initiated our own bougainvillea breeding program, and the acquisition of a Malaysian bougainvillea breeding company has significantly accelerated our progress,” shared Mr. Qian Yongkang, Chairman of Weijunkai. “Currently, our base hosts more than 10,000 bougainvillea varieties undergoing systematic commercial screening and evaluation.”
© Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co
“Traditionally used as a landscaping plant for roadsides and urban greening, bougainvillea has seen substantial volumes in these applications,” Mr. Qian noted. “In recent years, we are actively expanding into the home gardening market. The current annual output value of China’s bougainvillea industry is approximately RMB 10 billion, with the home gardening segment potentially reaching RMB 7 billion in the future.”
He identified shade tolerance, cold hardiness, and fragrance as the three key breeding directions. “A fragrant bougainvillea variety remains a global breakthrough. Bougainvillea naturally prefers full sun and has specific temperature requirements; improving its cold tolerance and shade tolerance, would unlock significantly broader market potential.”
© Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co
Through persistent breeding efforts, bougainvillea colors have become increasingly diverse. Currently, bicolor varieties, those with low saturation color series are selling well. A 1-gallon potted bougainvillea typically retails for around RMB 30.Beyond potted plants, bougainvillea cut flowers are a major R&D focus. “Preventing dehydration in cut stems is our primary challenge, and we are actively collaborating with research institutes and enterprises to address it,” Mr. Qian added.
© Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co
Overseas markets represent the next strategic phase. The company is focusing on Europe, the Middle East, and the United States, with plans to participate in relevant international trade shows. To protect new varieties, overseas plant breeder’s rights (PBR) applications are underway.
For more information:
Yunnan Weijunkai Landscaping Engineering Co., Ltd.
+86 4001981118
website: ttps://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/QKfXGgpqeGzZCxoHEjHvwQ
