Mandevilla, Or Is It Dipladenia?

Call them what you will, these freeflowering plants just get better and brighter as new hybrids make their mark.

- Gerald Schofield

Mandevillas, formerly known as dipladenias, are a group of handsome climbing plants with tubular or funnel-shaped flowers that originate from South and Central America. Today there are numerous hybrids for the garden. Many are relatively shrub-like in habit and are usually referred to as bush dipladenias, although they still have the tendency to climb if given the opportunity and a means of support. Others are vigorous and require ample space and uncluttered structures to creep upon, with no competition from other plants. Flowering commences in spring and extends right through summer to autumn.

Cultivation

These rewarding plants grow best in full sun in a position with free air movement, and are not happy growing against walls or other structures. Plant them in coarse, well-drained soil with plenty of compost or peat moss added to the mix. They have fleshy, tuberous roots that store moisture and food, and these shouldn’t be disturbed by digging around the root area as this can harm the plants.