Growing Mandevilla

Pronunciation: man-dah-vil'-lah

This lovely tropical climber has showy, funnel-shaped blossoms with five broad, pointed lobes that gracefully unfurl above shiny, dark green leaves. Native to Central and South America, Mandevilla is usually grown here as an annual on a trellis in large containers. It can be overwintered indoors in a warm, sunny room.

Light/Watering: Grow in full sun with some midday shade in hotter locations. Water moderately once or twice each week during the growing season, less frequently in winter.

Fertilizer/Soil: Plant in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. For containers, use a soil-based potting mix.

Pests and Diseases: No serious disease or insect problems but watch for whiteflies, spider mites and mealybugs, especially when overwintering plants indoors. Contact with the milky sap inside the plant may cause skin irritation.

Companions: Use on arbors or trellises or in containers placed where the plants can cascade from porches or decks. Grow with other sun-loving annuals and summer bulbs such as Persian Shield, Sweet Potato Vine, Canna, and Elephant Ears.

 

For information on planting and care of annuals, click How to grow annuals.