Mandevilla plants are a marvelous addition to any garden. With its beautiful blooms and lush foliage, this flowering vine brings a tropical feel to any space. Whether you’re looking for something to add color and life to your balcony, growing on a trellis, or a showstopping centerpiece for your garden, Mandevilla plants are the perfect choice.
Mandevilla plants are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Paraguay. They are also found in parts of Central America and the Caribbean. These plants thrive in warm climates with plenty of humidity and bright sunlight. With their summer long beautiful blooming flowers, and lush foliage, they can certainly add interest to your garden.
With proper care and maintenance, these plants will produce an abundance of beautiful flowers throughout the growing season. The flowers typically grow in clusters and have a trumpet-like shape that makes them stand out from other flowering plants. They are popular for their vibrant colors, which can range from deep red to bright pink, and recent additions of yellow and apricot. While they can be grown outdoors in warm climates, they are also grown as houseplants or in greenhouses in cooler areas.
Mandevillas are both annual and perennial; depending on the climate they are grown in. In cooler climates, they will die off in the winter months and need to be replanted each year, while in warmer climates they can survive year-round. If you are in a cooler climate, you can bring it indoors and grow it as a houseplant. It is difficult to grow year-round as a houseplant, so if you do bring it indoors, bring it back outside when the conditions allow for it.
Growing and Planting Tips
Soil - The best soil for growing Mandevilla plants should be well-draining, nutrient-rich, and slightly acidic. It should also contain plenty of organic matter and have adequate moisture retention capabilities. When selecting soil for your plants, make sure it has the right balance of nutrients and pH levels so that they can grow healthy and strong. If you grow your plant in a container you can use a potting mix.
Light - These plants like the sun but will tolerate partial shade. Provide them with at least six hours of sunlight each day, which is best for the flowers and the vines. They will be fine with some light shade, from a strong summer afternoon sun. If you grow your plant in a container, you can easily move it if the sun gets too hot. but their blooms will be less vibrant and abundant if they don’t get enough sun. If your plant is indoors position them near the window to get plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
Water - They thrive in moist soil but make sure it is not soggy. This plant can handle things getting a little dry. Water the plant slowly so it can absorb the water.
Temperature and Humidity – The ideal temperature range for Mandevilla plants is between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit, with a minimum nighttime temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If your climate is dry, try misting the leaves to get the humidity higher.
Fertilizer - While fertilizing is not really needed, the plant can be fertilized in the early spring and again after flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10.
Pests and Diseases – While the plant does not have major issues with pests it can attract mites, aphids, whiteflies, and mealy bugs. If you have an infestation, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil continually until all signs of infection are gone. Any diseases are caused by wet conditions and improper watering. Be sure to water the plant in the morning.
Toxicity – According to the ASPCA, Mandevilla is not toxic to animals, but it can be mildly toxic when ingested, so it is best to keep the plant away from children and pests. When the plant is cut it gives off a milky sap which can irritate the skin when there is contact.
Photos courtesy of Suntory Flowers.
