Mandevilla Plant: Vine Growing and Care Guide

Q: What are the best companion plants for Mandevilla?

Mandevilla pairs well with tropical plants like New Guinea Impatiens , moss roses , and ferns , creating a lush and colorful garden.

Imagine a vibrant garden bursting with cascading blooms in shades of red, pink, and white, transforming your space into a tropical paradise. The Mandevilla vine is every gardener’s dream—a stunning addition with its vibrant flowers, long-lasting blooms, and low-maintenance care. Whether you’re growing it in containers, training it along fences, or planting it in garden beds, Mandevilla offers endless possibilities.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for Mandevilla vines—from planting and upkeep to creative decorating ideas. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Mandevilla Plant

Mandevilla is a tropical and subtropical flowering vine native to Central and South America. Part of the Apocynaceae family, which includes oleander and periwinkle, this vine is known for its trumpet-shaped blooms and lush green foliage. Its botanical name, Mandevilla spp., pays homage to Henry Mandeville, who first discovered this plant in Argentina.

Characteristics of Mandevilla

Flowers: Large, trumpet-shaped blooms in vibrant colors like red, pink, white, and yellow. The flowers grow in clusters, adding a dramatic touch to gardens.
Foliage: Glossy green leaves that complement its bright flowers.
Growth Habit: Fast-growing with options for vining or mounding varieties, making it versatile for any garden setting.
Pollinator Attraction: Loved by hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

Why It’s Popular

Mandevilla is a favorite among gardeners for its tropical appeal, long blooming period, and ability to thrive with minimal care. It’s perfect for creating vertical interest on trellises or adding color to patios and decks.

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Types of Mandevilla Plant: Choosing the Right Variety

Vining Varieties

Mandevilla vines are ideal for gardeners looking to add height and vertical interest to their spaces. These varieties climb rapidly, making them perfect for trellises, fences, or pergolas.

‘Alice Dupont’: A classic variety with large pink flowers and vigorous growth, reaching up to 20 feet. Its lush foliage and stunning blooms make it a showstopper in any garden.
‘Sun Parasol Crimson’: Known for its semi-bushy growth and bright red flowers, this variety can climb up to 15 feet and is a favorite for adding dramatic color.

Mounding Varieties

Mounding varieties are compact and perfect for smaller spaces, patios, or hanging baskets. They grow in tidy mounds, making them easy to manage.

‘Red Riding Hood’: Features deep pink flowers and grows to a height of about 12 feet. It’s a great choice for container gardening.
‘Sunbeam’: Offers striking yellow blooms and stays compact, making it ideal for hanging baskets or smaller garden spaces.

White and Bi-Color Varieties

For those who prefer softer tones, white and bi-color varieties provide a touch of elegance.

Mandevilla boliviensis: This variety showcases pure white flowers and grows to a moderate height of about 10 feet, perfect for pergolas and entryways.
Mandevilla laxa (Chilean Jasmine): With fragrant white blooms, this variety adds a delightful scent to your garden while growing up to 15 feet.

Choosing the Right Type

When deciding on the best Mandevilla for your space, consider factors such as the available room for growth, your climate, and how you plan to display the plant. Vining varieties are best for larger areas and vertical gardening, while mounding varieties work well in containers or small garden plots.

Must Read: Red-Flowering Vines List

How to Grow Mandevilla: Step-by-Step Guide

Ideal Growing Conditions

To grow a thriving Mandevilla, it’s essential to provide the right environment. This plant’s tropical origins mean it loves warmth, sunlight, and humidity.

USDA Zones: Mandevilla is a perennial in Zones 9–11 and can be grown as an annual or brought indoors in cooler zones.
Light: These plants thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot climates, partial shade during the afternoon can help prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature & Humidity: Mandevilla prefers temperatures between 70–90°F (21–32°C) and high humidity levels (50–60%). In dry areas or indoors, mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity.

Planting Mandevilla

In Containers

Mandevilla’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for container gardening, especially if you live in a cooler climate where the plant needs to be moved indoors during winter.

Choose the Right Pot: Use a container with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Requirements: Fill the pot with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix enriched with organic material like compost or peat moss.
Planting Steps: Gently remove the Mandevilla from its nursery pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the container. Backfill with soil, ensuring the root ball sits at the same level as in the original pot.
Watering: After planting, give the soil a thorough soak to help it settle around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.

In the Ground

For gardeners in warmer climates, Mandevilla can be planted directly into the ground.

Select a Sunny Spot: Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil.
Prepare the Soil: Enrich the planting area with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Planting Steps: Create a planting hole slightly wider than the root ball to allow the roots to expand comfortably. Place the plant, backfill it with soil, and firm it gently around the base.
Mulching: Add a 2–3 inch layer of mulch, such as bark or compost, around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Support for Vining Varieties

Vining Mandevilla varieties need sturdy structures to climb. Popular options include:

Trellises: Attach vines gently using garden ties as they grow.
Fences or Arbors: Let the plant naturally twine around vertical surfaces.
Pergolas: Create a lush, flower-laden canopy by training vines upward.

Also Read: How Do You Fix Yellow Leaves on Tomato Plants?

Mandevilla Care Tips: Keeping Your Plant Healthy

Watering:

Regular watering is essential for maintaining the health and vibrant blooms of your Mandevilla. Striking the right balance between hydration and dryness is essential.

Frequency: Water your Mandevilla once a week during mild weather. In hot, dry climates or during the summer, increase watering to twice a week.
Technique: Water deeply at the base of the plant to ensure the roots are adequately hydrated. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Tip: Reduce watering in cooler months or when the plant is dormant.

Fertilizing:

Mandevilla plants are heavy feeders, especially during their blooming season. Regular fertilization will help maintain their vibrant flowers and lush foliage.

Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every 2–3 weeks during the growing season. A fertilizer rich in phosphorus promotes flowering.
Soil Enrichment: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil in early spring to improve its nutrient content.
When to Stop: Cease fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows or stops.

Pruning:

Pruning is essential to keep your Mandevilla neat, encourage flowering, and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

Timing: Prune in early spring to encourage fresh growth and prepare the plant for a season of blooming. This ensures that the plant can channel its energy into producing fresh stems and blooms.
How to Prune:
1. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back overgrown or tangled vines.
2. Remove dead or diseased branches to improve the plant’s health.
3. To prevent stress, limit pruning to no more than one-third of the plant’s total size.
Regular Maintenance: Pinch back new growth during the growing season to encourage bushier growth.

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How Do You Take Care of a Mandevilla in the Winter?

If you live in a cooler climate, Mandevilla requires special attention during the winter months.

Bring Indoors: Move container-grown plants indoors before the first frost. Position the plant in a brightly lit area where it receives filtered or indirect sunlight.
Watering: Water sparingly during winter, just enough to keep the soil from completely drying out.
Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures between 60–65°F (15–18°C). Avoid drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Dormancy: Don’t worry if the plant sheds some leaves or stops blooming. This is a natural part of its dormancy period.

Also, you may be wondering, how to cut back Mandevilla for winter.

To cut back a Mandevilla for winter, prune it in late fall by trimming the plant to 6–12 inches above the soil, removing dead or damaged stems, and cutting back long vines to encourage compact growth. After pruning, place it in a cool, bright location indoors and water sparingly during its dormant period.

Mandevilla Plant: Common Issues and Solutions

Even with proper care, Mandevilla may occasionally face challenges. Here’s how to address them:

Why are leaves turning yellow on my mandevilla?

Cause: Overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or sudden temperature changes.
Solution: Adjust your watering routine and ensure the plant gets adequate sunlight and fertilization.

Why is my Vining mandevilla not blooming?

Cause: Insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing with nitrogen, or improper pruning.
Solution: Provide 6+ hours of sunlight, switch to a phosphorus-rich fertilizer, and prune appropriately.

Infestations:

Common Culprits: Spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
Solution: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap and monitor regularly for new infestations.

Also Read: How Do You Encourage Tomato Plants to Grow?

Decorating with Mandevilla: Creative Ideas

Outdoor Spaces

Trellises and Pergolas:

Train Mandevilla vines on trellises, pergolas, or arbors to create a dramatic vertical display.
Use them to add height and color to fences or walls.

Hanging Baskets:

Choose mounding varieties like ‘Red Riding Hood’ for hanging baskets.
Let the vines cascade over the edges to create a lush, tropical look for patios or balconies.

Railing Planters:

Grow compact varieties in railing planters along balconies or decks. Their vibrant blooms add a striking contrast to greenery.

Mix with Other Plants:

Combine Mandevilla with complementary plants like moss roses or New Guinea Impatiens in flower beds or large containers.
This creates a layered look with varying heights and textures.

Indoor Uses

Cut Flower Arrangements:

Snip a few Mandevilla stems and arrange them in bud vases for a pop of color on dining tables or countertops.
Their thin, elegant stems make them ideal for minimalist arrangements.

Mantel Displays:

Use longer stems to create cascading arrangements for mantels or shelves. Pair them with ferns or other greenery for a tropical vibe.

Small Space Accents:

Brighten powder rooms or small spaces by placing cut Mandevilla blooms in petite vases. Their vibrant colors work well even in tight areas.

Vertical Gardens

Create a living wall by training vining Mandevilla alongside other flowering or foliage plants. Use it to cover unsightly walls or as a decorative partition in your garden.

Companion Planting

Mandevilla thrives alongside plants that share similar care needs:
- New Guinea Impatiens: Their rich colors complement Mandevilla blooms.
- Moss Roses: A low-growing plant that contrasts well with the vine’s height.
- Ferns or Grasses: Add texture and greenery to balance the vivid Mandevilla flowers.

Holiday and Seasonal Uses

Decorate pergolas or outdoor dining spaces with a Mandevilla for festive gatherings or summer parties.
Use potted Mandevilla vines as statement pieces flanking your front door or garden entrance.

Propagating Mandevilla: Multiply Your Plants

Stem Cuttings:

One of the easiest ways to propagate Mandevilla is through stem cuttings. Here’s how you can do it:

Timing: Collect cuttings during late spring or early summer when the plant’s growth is most vigorous.
Preparation: Choose healthy, 6-inch stems with at least two nodes (where leaves grow). Remove the lower leaves, leaving just a few at the top.
Rooting Hormone: Use rooting hormone on the cut end of the stem to promote quicker root development.
Planting: Insert the stem into a pot filled with moist potting mix. Enclose the pot with a clear plastic cover or dome to create a humid environment that aids rooting.
Placement: Keep the pot in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight.
Growth: In 4–6 weeks, roots should develop. Once established, transplant the cutting into a larger container or garden bed.

Layering:

If you prefer a hands-free approach, layering is another effective propagation method:

Choose a Stem: Select a long, flexible stem and gently bend it to the ground.
Nick the Stem: Make a small cut where the stem touches the soil to encourage root growth.
Secure and Cover: Pin the nicked section to the soil with a U-pin or a small stone. Cover it lightly with soil, leaving the tip of the stem exposed.
Watering: Maintain evenly moist soil, avoiding waterlogging, to ensure the plant remains healthy and vigorous.
Transplanting: After a few weeks, roots will form. Cut the rooted stem from the parent plant and plant it in its new location.

Mandevilla: Pest and Disease Management

Spider Mites:

Signs: Tiny webbing under leaves, yellow speckling, and eventual leaf drop.
Solution: Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on affected areas. Increase humidity around the plant to deter these pests.

Mealybugs:

Signs: White, cotton-like clumps on leaves and stems.
Solution: Dab infested areas with alcohol-soaked cotton or apply horticultural oil for larger infestations.

Aphids:

Signs: Clusters of tiny, soft-bodied insects feeding on new growth.
Solution: Wash them off with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap.

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Mandevilla Plant FAQs

Do Mandevillas come back every year?

In USDA Zones 9–11, Mandevillas are perennial and will come back year after year. In cooler zones, they are typically treated as annuals unless overwintered indoors.

How much sunlight do Mandevillas need?

For optimal growth and blooming, mandevillas require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Some afternoon shade is beneficial in very hot regions.

Can Mandevilla grow indoors?

Yes, Mandevilla plants can grow indoors if placed in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Ensure humidity levels remain high to mimic tropical conditions.

What are the best companion plants for Mandevilla?

Mandevilla pairs well with tropical plants like New Guinea Impatiens, moss roses, and ferns, creating a lush and colorful garden.

How do you overwinter a Mandevilla plant?

Before the first frost, bring the plant indoors. Place it in a bright, cool location, water sparingly, and stop fertilizing until spring.

How do you get a Mandevilla to bloom again?

To get a Mandevilla to bloom again, prune it back to 6 inches, place it in a bright spot, water minimally, and avoid fertilizing during its dormant period. It won’t bloom indoors unless it gets ample sunlight, like in a sunroom.

Where is the best place to plant a Mandevilla?

The best place to plant a Mandevilla is in a location with full sun exposure, as it thrives with all-day sunlight. Ensure the spot provides at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming.

How often do you water a potted Mandevilla?

Water a potted Mandevilla once or twice a week, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Adjust the frequency based on weather, and reduce watering in winter.

Does Mandevilla need a trellis?

Yes, Mandevilla vines need a trellis or similar support structure to climb. Without support, they may sprawl on the ground. A trellis helps showcase their vibrant blooms and keeps the plant tidy. Compact or mounding varieties, however, do not require a trellis.

What does an overwatered Mandevilla look like?

An overwatered Mandevilla often has yellowing or drooping leaves, soggy soil, and may develop root rot, causing blackened, mushy roots. Brown or black spots on leaves from fungal infections are also common. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings to prevent these issues.

Can Mandevilla take hot afternoon Sun?

Yes, Mandevilla can tolerate hot afternoon sun, but in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch and stress. Ideally, it thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct light daily.

Do Mandevillas like to be misted?

Yes, Mandevillas enjoy being misted, especially in dry climates or indoors where humidity levels are low. Misting helps maintain the humidity they need to thrive and keeps their foliage healthy.

Do Mandevilla need big pots?

Mandevillas don’t require large pots initially. A container that is 12–14 inches wide with good drainage is suitable. As the plant grows, it may need repotting into a slightly larger pot to accommodate its expanding root system.

Can Mandevilla get too much sun?

While Mandevillas thrive in full sun, prolonged exposure to intense afternoon heat in very hot climates can cause leaf scorch or stress. In such conditions, partial afternoon shade is recommended.

Do you deadhead Mandevilla?

Deadheading Mandevilla is not necessary, as it naturally drops spent flowers. However, removing spent blooms can improve its appearance and encourage more flowering.

Is Mandevilla poisonous to birds?

Mandevilla is not classified as toxic to birds/animals by the ASPCA, but it can cause mild toxicity if ingested. It’s best to keep it away from birds to avoid any potential harm.

Is Mandevilla toxic to dogs?

If ingested, it can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and other digestive issues. While it is not typically fatal, it can be more harmful to puppies due to their smaller size. Keep Mandevilla plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Do squirrels eat Mandevilla plants?

Squirrels are attracted to Mandevilla plants because of their moisture-rich parts. Signs of herbivore damage caused by squirrels include gnawing marks, browsing damage, and droppings around the plant.

Do hummingbirds like Mandevilla?

Yes, hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees are all attracted to Mandevilla plants. The nectar-filled, tube-shaped flowers of both vining and mounding varieties make them favorites for these pollinators.

Conclusion

From planting tips to pruning advice, we’ve covered everything you need to help your Mandevilla thrive, whether in containers, on trellises, or in garden beds. Now, you can confidently grow and enjoy this stunning vine all year round.

We’d love to hear from you!

Have you grown Mandevilla in your garden? What worked best for you, or what challenges did you face?

Share your feedback or your story of growing and caring for this beautiful vine in the comments below. Happy gardening!

Information Sources:

Here at RASNetwork Gardening, integrity and accuracy are at the core of our content creation, with every article solidly backed by peer-reviewed research and reliable references. See the list of trusted sources used in this article below.

1. Mandevilla Factsheet by Clemson University
2. Mandevilla | Wikipedia