Climbing plants add a special charm to any garden, terrace, or even large interior spaces. Among the most appreciated and showy varieties is the Mandevilla splendens, Also known as dipladenia, Chilean jasmine o Chilean jasmineThis plant is not only valued for covering walls, pergolas and trellises with its leafy foliage, but above all for its spectacular flowering, capable of filling any corner with color and aroma.
In this complete guide you will discover What is Mandevilla splendens like? Essential care that it needs in each season, the different related species, and a series of practical recommendations so you can enjoy its beauty for a long time. In addition, you will learn Curiosities, propagation methods, fertilizer recommendations, substrate selection, pest prevention, and the best ways to encourage flowering.If you are looking for comprehensive, verified information aimed at resolving all your doubts about the Mandevilla splendens, you will find it here.
Characteristics and varieties of Mandevilla splendens
Mandevilla splendens It is a climbing and herbaceous plant belonging to the family of ApocynaceaeIts origin is located in tropical and subtropical regions of South America, mainly Brazil and neighboring countries, where it grows as perennial species. However, In colder climates it loses its leaves in winter, adopting a deciduous behavior to sprout strongly in spring.
This plant has long, flexible stems covered in a light down, a distinctive characteristic of the species. Although it grows slowly, It can reach between 4 and 5 meters in length If given the proper support and optimal conditions, its leaves are large, oval, deep green, and glossy.
The flowers of Mandevilla splendens are its greatest attraction.: trumpet-shaped, they appear in reddish or white tones, and, in some varieties and conditions, they can have pink hues. In addition to their beauty, they are very aromatic, filling the environment with a pleasant perfume during flowering.
Within this genus there are several popular species and cultivars:
- Mandevilla splendens: Large, bright red flowers. Dense leaves, vigorous growth.
- Mandevilla sanderi: Also called Brazilian jasmine, it offers pink or red flowers with a yellow-orange center and leathery leaves.
- Mandevilla boliviensis: White flower with yellow or orange throat, more resistant to cold and with a mild aroma.
- Alice du Pont: Hybrid with pale pink flowers and especially large, glossy leaves.
- Sundaville Red: Produces clusters of up to 15 flowers of an intense red color.
Meaning, ornamental uses and toxicity
Dipladenia or mandevilla not only brings beauty but also a special meaning: overcoming challenges and rebirth, related to its ability to regrow after winter rest and its vigor to cover difficult surfaces.
It is used outdoors to decorate walls, pergolas, trellises, balconies, and columns, or in hanging pots, vertical gardens, and as an indoor plant in brightly lit areas. Variations in size are available. hanging, espalier and columnar, adapting to all types of spaces.
It is important to remember that Mandevilla splendens is a toxic plantAlthough contact with the plant is not dangerous, no part of the plant (leaves, flowers, stems, or roots) should be ingested, especially in homes with small children or pets, as it can cause severe digestive upset.
Essential care of Mandevilla splendens
To make it look vibrant and healthy, it is essential to take care of its specific needs for light, temperature, soil, water, fertilizer and pruningAlthough its reputation as a demanding plant is justified compared to more hardy outdoor species, by understanding its requirements and establishing simple routines, you can enjoy its splendor every season.
Location: light and surroundings
Mandevilla splendens can be grown both indoors and outdoors.The secret is to provide plenty of natural light, avoiding direct sunlight during the central hours of the day. In the Exterior, it is best to place it in semi-shadow, especially in very hot climates, ensuring it receives filtered light and avoiding the scorching midday sun, which can burn its leaves and flowers.
En interiorPlace it near a well-lit window, but not in direct sunlight. In dimly lit rooms, its growth will be weak and it will hardly flower. Avoid drafts and excessively dry environments caused by radiators or air conditioning, as the plant requires high humidity.
To optimize its development and promote its climbing habit, Provide a structure such as a trellis, espalier, or support, allowing its stems to take hold and direct growth.
Temperature and cold resistance
Mandevilla is a tropical plant and does not tolerate intense cold or frost.. Below 10°C, it enters a dormant period and may lose its leaves. At 7°C or lower, there is a severe risk of damage. Ideally, it should be kept between 15 and 29 ° CIf winters are harsh in your area, it's advisable to move your pet indoors or protect it with thermal blankets and quilts.
During the winter it is recommended to keep the pot away from cold sources, cover its roots with a layer of mulch and place containers with water nearby to increase the ambient humidity, but without directly wetting the leaves and flowers to avoid the appearance of fungi.
Substrate and soil selection
The substrate must be rich in organic matter and with excellent drainageAn ideal mix is ​​equal parts black peat and coconut fiber, with perlite or coarse sand added if the mix retains too much water. Combinations of peat with silica sand or mature compost also work. Avoid heavy or clayey soils that promote waterlogging, as the plant is prone to root rot.
In pots, make sure they have drainage holes and add a layer of gravel or expanded clay to the bottom. In gardens, choose raised areas and avoid standing water.
Irrigation and humidity needs
Watering is critical for Mandevilla splendens. It requires keep the substrate moist but not soakedIn summer and warm seasons, water with 2 to 4 times a week, checking that the first layer of substrate isn't dry before watering again. In winter and cool weather, reduce the frequency to once every 10-15 days, avoiding excess moisture.
Although it is sensitive to waterlogging, it also does not tolerate severe droughtIf the leaves turn yellow or droop, it may indicate a lack of water or excess moisture that's poorly drained. Mist the leaves (without wetting the flowers) if the environment is very dry, especially in heated rooms. Outdoors, you can place saucers of damp stones or humidifiers near the base.
- Summer: every 2 or 3 days depending on the weather.
- Winter: every 10-15 days, only when the substrate is almost dry.
- Interior: Check humidity before watering and adjust spraying, especially if heating is present.
Fertilization and fertilization
El regular fertilization is essential To achieve vigorous growth and prolonged flowering, apply a liquid fertilizer for flowering plants every two weeks from early spring to late summer, diluted in the irrigation water. If you prefer organic fertilizers, you can use mature compost, worm castings, guano, or bokashi, applied in small amounts to enrich the plant with potassium and phosphorus, the nutrients that most promote flower production.
It's essential not to overfeed or overfertilize during off-season, as this can cause root burn and slow flowering. In fall and winter, suspend fertilization until new shoots or stems reappear.
Pruning and maintenance
Light pruning in spring to stimulate new shoots and remove broken, dry, or misaligned branches. Drastic pruning is not recommended except for very old specimens or to control size in small spaces. During the growing season, remove faded flowers and stunted stems so the plant can focus its energy on more abundant blooms. Mature plants can tolerate more intensive pruning in spring, but always maintain a minimum amount of green foliage to avoid weakening them.
Transplanting and repotting
The transplant is performed at late autumn or just before the start of winter dormancy, when the sap is less active. Move the plant to a pot just a few centimeters larger than the previous one to prevent excess root growth at the expense of the aerial part. Make sure to replace the substrate with a fresh one rich in organic matter.
In the garden, repot only if absolutely necessary, as changes can be stressful. Take this opportunity to check the root system and remove any damaged or rotten roots before replanting.
Flowering: how to stimulate it and how long it lasts
To encourage lush flowering:
- Ensures a very bright location without direct sunlight during peak hours.
- Maintain environmental humidity and a nourished substrate.
- Don't neglect fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus.
- Avoid sudden changes in location or extreme temperatures.
A well-cared-for flower can last from several weeks to even two months if there is no heavy rain, sudden drops in temperature or direct exposure to intense sunlight.
Pests, diseases and prevention
- Red spider: It causes small yellow spots on leaves and fine cobwebs. It is treated by spraying with potassium soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: They leave a white or sticky coating on stems and leaves. They can be removed manually or with soapy water.
- White fly: It produces yellowish areas and weakens the plant. Neem oil is a good preventative remedy.
- Fungi: They can proliferate if the environment is excessively humid and there is a lack of ventilation. Avoid excess water on leaves and flowers and improve drainage.
Prevention is key: regularly inspect the plant, promptly remove damaged leaves, and avoid overcrowding to improve air circulation. Keeping the plant strong and well-nourished makes it more resistant to pests and diseases.
reproduction and multiplication
The multiplication is performed through seeds collected from ripe flowers or by semi-woody cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. To propagate by cuttings:
- Choose healthy stems of 10-15 cm, with several nodes.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the base in rooting hormone.
- Plant them in light soil, keep it moist and in a warm, shaded location.
- In a few weeks, the new shoots can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by cuttings is slow and often more successful under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. In home gardens, it is most common to purchase plants from nurseries.
Common problems and solutions
Some of the most common problems when growing splendens, along with their solutions, are:
- Lack of flowering: This is usually due to a lack of light, insufficient fertilizer, or recent transplants. Improve exposure, fertilize regularly, and avoid stressing the plant.
- Yellow sheets: Due to excess water, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency. Adjust watering and check the substrate.
- Leaf loss in winter: If the temperature drops too low, the plant goes dormant and may lose all its leaves. Increase the temperature and reduce watering until the first warm weather arrives.
- Persistent pests: Reinforce hygiene, trim severely affected areas, and alternate biological treatments if necessary.
With the care and recommendations in this guide, your Mandevilla splendens It can become the queen of patios, terraces, balconies or bright corners of the interior. Its combination of Spectacular flowers, easy propagation and ornamental versatility making it one of the best choices among climbing plants. By observing its signs and adjusting your care routine, you'll enjoy a natural curtain full of color and fragrance year after year.
