There are many good reasons why it is becoming increasingly difficult to encounter a landscape in the Southwest that doesn’t include at least one of these lush, tropical shrubs. Mainly popular for its display of intense deep magenta color from spring through fall, Bougainvillea makes a terrific backdrop when trellised against a wall or fence. It performs well in the ground or in containers, is fairly drought tolerant, and loves the summer heat. While Bougainvillea are known to be frost tender, Barbara Karst is the hardiest variety. It will grow rapidly with the onset of warmth in spring, quickly making up for time spent in winter dormancy.