Introduction
An impressive tropical or subtropical flowering vine from the Americas. With its trumpet-shaped flowers in pink, red and white has long been popular as an ornamental among gardeners. But as a beginner, caring for this plant can be a little complicated. This post will get to the bottom of everything to do with this plant from it’s positives and negatives to how to care for them and what you should ask if you want to take one home with you.
Mandevilla vines can lend a lush, tropical look to your garden, patio or even inside. Their green leaves and beautiful flowers are enough to make any gardener want to add them to their garden. But just like all the nice things needs room to grow. Here’s a look at why it’s worth the effort.
Table of Contents
Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mandevilla spp. |
| Common Name | Rocktrumpet, Dipladenia |
| Plant Type | Tropical blooming vine |
| Mature Size | 4 to 8 feet long or 4 to 5 feet tall |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, loamy |
| Soil pH | 5.8 to 6.5 |
| Bloom Time | Spring to fall |
| Flower Color | Red, white, pink, or yellow |
| Hardiness Zones | 9 to 11, 15 to 20 (as a houseplant) |
| Native Area | South America; cultivated across tropics and sub-tropics of the world |
Pros of Growing
- Flower Beauty: Unique flowers with a green and glossy appearance
- VERSATILE: Great for containers, hanging baskets or trellises
- Long Bloom Season: Blooms spring until late fall
- Attracts Pollinators: Hummingbirds and butterflies flock to this plant
- Scent: Many types have a sweet, spicy scent
- Trellis Support: Excellent for creating colorful interest in the garden
- Low Maintenance (once established): After the plant is settled, it needs little more than pruning and shaping.
Drawbacks of Growing
- Not Frost-Hardy: Please bring these plants indoors in cooler climates
- Needs frequent trimmings – it’s a bit of a floppy grower
- Harmful to Pets: Ingestion of leaves and flowers is harmful
- Pest Susceptible to spider mites and aphids
- Needs Support: Grape vines need something to grow up.
- Susceptible to Overwatering: May cause root rot if soil does not have good drainage
How to Care
Light Requirements
Mandevilla prefers full sun but will accept some shade. Strive for a minimum of 6 hours of full sunlight daily. Situation To grow indoor place close to a south-facing window.
Soil & Watering Needs
- Soil: Likes well-draining and slightly acidic soil. Mix potting soil, sand and compost together.
- Irrigation: The plant requires regular watering during the growing months and keep top inch of soil dry between watering. 4) Water less on in colder months to prevent root rot.
Pruning and Fertilization
- Pruning: In early spring, prune to promote bushier growth. Trim back straggly vines to keep the plant tidy and encourage more blooms.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a high-phosphorus fertilizer (10-20-10) every 2-3 weeks during flowering. Too much nitrogen promotes leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pest Control
- Spider Mites: These tiny spider-like pests are found on the underside of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Hose these sap-sucking pests off your plants with a strong blast of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: Another common pest; yellow sticky traps and neem oil are the answer.
Winter Care
- Mandevilla is not cold hardy below 50°F (10°C). For those of you living in colder zones, take it indoors before the first frost.
- Keep in a sunny indoor spot, cut back on watering and don’t fertilize until spring.
Propagation Methods
Stem Cuttings
- Snip out 4-6 inches cuttings from healthy vines in spring or early summer.
- Remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant in a well-draining mix and keep moist.
Seeds
- Save seeds from spent blossoms (if your plant has them).
- Begin indoors in early spring.
- Germination may be slow and inconsistent.
Layering
- Bend a prostrate growing vine to the ground and cover a portion with soil, but keep the tip exposed.
- Plant rooted cutting when developed
Landscaping
- Patio Beauty: Use in pots with a trellis for height.
- On the Border: Grow dwarf varieties as a colorful edging.
- Trailing Lobelia – Hanging baskets: The perfect hanging basket plants.
- Pergolas and arbors: Give climbing ones a frame to sprawl on the wall.
Create tropical splendor in your landscape plan. Send them knowledgeably potted with plants, hibiscus or jasmine, or some hardy ferns.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Growth
- Habit: Outdoor: Best grown in USDA Zones: 9-11. Full sun and warmth required.
- Indoor: Needs bright light. Be careful of dry indoor air in winter—use a humidity tray, give a mist.
Common Mandevilla Varieties
| Name | Variety | Color | Habit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandevilla Alice DuPont | Pink | Climber Vigorous | |
| Mandevilla Red Riding Hood | Deep Red | Shrub Compact | |
| Mandevilla Sun Parasol | White, Red, Pink | Mixed | |
| Mandevilla Sanderi | Bright Pink | Trailing | |
| Mandevilla Splendens | Pink | Fast Climber |
FAQs
Q1: Can Mandevilla live indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow mandevilla indoors, not all year, but for the winter. Put it near a bright window and cut back on water.
Q2: Is Mandevilla poisonous to dogs?
A: No, dogbane is poisonous to dogs (as well as cats) when eaten.
Q3: How should I water my Mandevilla?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not over-water, as the roots will rot.
Q4: Is it possible to grow Mandevilla from seeds?
A: Yes, but it is a more tentative process and not as certain as with stem cuttings.
Q5: How come my Mandevilla doesn’t bloom?
A: The poor light, poor fertilizer or over-pruning might be to blame.
Q6: What type of pot should I use for Mandevilla?
A: Plant in a pot with good drainage. Clay pots do a great job of keeping away over watering.
Q7: Are Mandevillas Attractive to Insects?
A. They can draw good insects like bees and butterflies, and bad insects too, such as aphids and spider mites.
Conclusion
Mandevilla is a lovely plant that is welcome on any garden or patio with its beautiful flowers and exotic looks. But it requires a little bit of care, most notably in the areas of lighting, watering and pest control. Whether you are an aspiring horticulturist or the next Martha Stewart, mastering a few care basics will enable you to make the most of this delightful plant.
With a little love and care thrive and become a real show-stopper in your home or garden. From its stunning flowers to its ability to do well in the landscape, Mandevilla is a winner. Don’t let that scare you off, though—it’s worth the effort.