Bougainvillea are tropical plants that thrive in areas outdoors with low rainfall and intense heat. For maximum blooming, they need direct sunlight for at least 5 hours per day. Bougainvilleas can be grown to the size and shape desired. You can grow them as Bonsai, standard, bush, hanging baskets, espaliers, pyramid or over an arch or the ceiling to provide shade. Bougainvillea have a long life span and can grow for decades. They like full sun and can be grown in the ground, on a windowsill, or on a porch.