Mandevilla flowers, commonly called rocktrumpets, are large, colorful, and ornate. Plus, they grow on vines which means they can provide great versatility and potential for creativity to your garden designs. In this guide, I’ll run through everything you need to know about Mandevilla flower meaning, symbolism, popular types, uses, and essential growing tips.
- Mandevilla – The Essentials:
- About Mandevilla
- The Meaning and Symbolism of Mandevilla
- Uses and Benefits of Mandevilla
- How to Grow Mandevilla
- Caring for Mandevilla
- Best Companion Plants for Mandevilla
- Creative Uses for Mandevilla
- Mandevilla Crafts
- Mandevilla Flower FAQs:
- Growing and Loving Your Mandevilla Flowers
Mandevilla – The Essentials:
| Plant Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Mandevilla |
| Scientific Name: | Mandevilla spp. |
| Native Range: | South and Central America |
| Colors: | Pink, white, yellow, and red |
| Characteristics: | Glossy leaves and showy, trumpet-shaped flowers |
| Mature Height: | 6 to 20 feet |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to fall |
| Growing Zones: | 10 to 11 |
| Sunlight: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering: | Regular watering with well-draining soil |
| Soil: | Well-draining soil with average fertility |
| Fertilizing: | Regular fertilization with balanced fertilizer |
| Pests: | Mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and whiteflies |
| Pruning: | Prune in late winter or early spring to promote bushy growth and blooming |
| Symbolism: | Represents romance, love, and deep affection |
About Mandevilla
Taxonomy
Mandevilla is a genus containing 177 accepted species of flowering vines that belong to the Apocynaceae (dogbane) plant family within the Apocynoideae subfamily and the Mesechiteae tribe. Plants of this genus are commonly referred to by the genus name Mandevilla and also commonly referred to as rocktrumpets.
Botanical Characteristics
Mandevilla is a flowering vine that can grow three to 10 feet long or tall with about a three to four-foot spread at maturity. It produces glossy, green, ovate leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers with five petals. The flowers can be pink, red, white, or yellow. Depending on the species, cultivar, or hybrid, the flowers are usually either small and abundant or larger with fewer blossoms. Mandevilla flowers are fragrant with a strong, floral scent similar to that of gardenia flowers.
Mandevilla vines bloom year-round in warm climates and, in cooler climates, from summer into fall.
Native Range
The Mandevilla flower is both tropical and subtropical. It is native to Mexico and Central America; Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States; and all of South America, with the exception of Chile and Argentina. It has been introduced to southeastern China, where it now grows naturally, as well.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Mandevilla
Etymology
Mandevilla was first classified as a genus in 1840, and the genus was named after Henry Mandeville, who was a British gardener and diplomat. The common name “rocktrumpet” refers to the trumpet-like shape of mandevilla flowers, trumpets that seem to grow up from the rocks.
Symbolism and Meaning
In the Language of Flowers, mandevilla symbolizes delicate beauty, the quality of being delectable, attractive, gentility, sensitivity, and being susceptible. Mandevilla flowers are also associated with adaptability, resilience, and strength. In addition, Mandevilla flowers can represent:
Love and Romance:
Mandevilla flowers are often associated with love, passion, and romance. They can be given as a gift to a romantic partner to express affection and devotion.
Beauty and Elegance:
The large, colorful blooms of the Mandevilla plant are also a symbol of beauty and elegance. They are often used in floral arrangements and as decorative plants in gardens and outdoor spaces.
Perseverance:
The Mandevilla plant requires a degree of care and attention to thrive, which can make it a symbol of perseverance and determination.
Transformation:
In some cultures, the Mandevilla flower is seen as a symbol of transformation and spiritual growth. It is believed to represent the journey of the soul and the transformational power of nature.
Uses and Benefits of Mandevilla
Mandevilla vines are primarily cultivated for their ornamental benefits. Their flowers are showy, fragrant, and attractive. Plus, the climbing habits of vines add vertical interest to a garden.
In fact, the plants are so attractive that two mandevilla hybrids (Mandevilla x amabilis ‘Sundaville Cream Pink’ and Mandevilla x amabilis ‘Alice du Pont’) have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
In terms of pollinators, mandevilla flowers do not attract bees, but they will draw hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
How to Grow Mandevilla
Growing Zones
Mandevilla are perennial plants in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11. In cooler climates, they are popularly grown as annuals.
Appropriate Locations
Mandevilla vines prefer full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade. In warmer climates or at the height of summer, afternoon shade can benefit a mandevilla vine by preventing its leaves from scorching.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining potting mix with plenty of sand and organic material is best for mandevilla vines. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil but can tolerate slightly alkaline soil.
Planting Tips and Techniques
Mandevilla flowers should be planted in mid to late spring once the temperature is consistently above 50°F. Provide them with a trellis to climb or plant them along a wall or fence to support the vine’s climbing growth habit. If you plan to overwinter your mandevilla vines indoors, be sure to plant them in a movable container that has drainage holes.
Watering and Fertilizing
A mandevilla’s soil should never be soggy, but it should stay lightly moist. Mandevilla vines need well-draining soil, but they prefer to have an evenly moist environment. They should be watered when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry.
Water mandevilla plants slowly so they have time to soak up the water. Additionally, take some time to spray down their leaves gently. This not only washes away any pests that might be present but also helps to increase the humidity around the plant, mimicking its natural tropical and subtropical environments.
Mandevillas are fast-growing plants that require quite a bit of nutrients. As a result, they can benefit from fertilization during the growing season. Either provide yours with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring or use a half-strength, balanced, liquid fertilizer every two weeks throughout the season (spring to fall).
How to Use Them in Your Garden
Mandevilla vines are best used to create vertical visual interest and color in a garden. They readily climb trellises, walls, and other supports. Their vines can also be attractively displayed in hanging baskets.
Despite their natural climbing growth habit, they can be trained to achieve a bushier appearance by trimming back the stems in early spring.
Mandevilla vines perform well, both planted in the ground and in containers.
Caring for Mandevilla
Pruning and Deadheading
Mandevilla flowers will continue to bloom throughout the season, with or without deadheading. Removing spent blooms, however, can improve the vines’ appearance while protecting the plant from harmful bacteria that could grow in decaying blossoms.
Mandevilla should be pruned at least once annually in winter or early spring. The plant can be cut back before new growth begins appearing. (If you prune a plant too late, you could prevent it from blooming since mandevilla vines produce buds on new growth.)
When pruning, water the plant first and then use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any damaged or diseased branches. You can also cut back portions of stems that are creating an undesirable shape. Cut vines back to a location just in front of a set of leaves. Do not prune more than a third of the plant’s total mass.
Additionally, mandevilla vines can become spindly or leggy in low light conditions. Pinching back the vine’s growth with careful pruning can help the vine become bushier and fuller at the pruning locations.
Common Pests and Diseases
Mandevilla plants are relatively resilient but can be susceptible to some pests and diseases.
Common pests that affect mandevilla vines include scales, whiteflies, aphids, and red spider mites. If you see these insects or signs of leaf damage on your plant, you can treat the infestation using horticultural oil (neem oil) or insecticidal soap.
Mandevilla plants can also develop anthracnose, a fungal disease. This can cause brown spots on leaves, overly wet leaves, and dropping leaves. If you notice these signs, remove the infected leaves and treat your plant with an appropriate fungicide.
Overwintering and Storage
In climate zones below 10, indoor storage and overwintering are necessary to keep mandevilla plants through the winter. You’ll need to move your plants indoors before the temperature falls below 50°F.
When you first move your plant indoors, it can be cut down a little, which helps the plant to rest. Ensure it is in a location that receives lots of bright, indirect light. Water it when the top inch or two of the soil becomes dry, and mist it regularly to keep the humidity up. You can also plug in a humidifier near the plant or place it on a water-filled tray of pebbles.
Best Companion Plants for Mandevilla
Suitable companion plants for mandevilla vines include:
- Tropical hibiscus
- Dipladenia
- Coleus
- Lantana
These plants suit the same hardiness zones and environmental conditions as mandevilla plants. Plus, they will protect the mandevillas from harsh weather and cold winds. Planted near your mandevilla vines, these companion plants can help ensure your mandevilla blooms vigorously throughout the growing season.
Creative Uses for Mandevilla
Vertical Interest in the Garden
Without climbing or hanging plants, a garden can feel one-dimensional, with most plants remaining reasonably low to the ground. By planting mandevilla vines along garden walls, columns, statues, bird baths, fences, and trellises (or any tall object), you can easily create vertical visual interest, elevating your garden and drawing the onlookers’ eyes upward.
Additionally, mandevilla vines grow well in hanging baskets. Their vines can drape gracefully over the edges to sway in a warm breeze while other stems climb up the chains from which your baskets are hanging. This brings color and foliage in two directions for an elegant floral display.
Indoor Mandevilla Growth
With ample sunlight, mandevilla vines can also be successfully grown indoors. Their beautiful flowers and climbing vines can be used indoors in much the same way as they can be used in outdoor gardens – to create vertical visual interest.
Mandevilla Crafts
Use your mandevilla vines to create living artwork in your garden. You can really make a statement by creating cleverly shaped trellises. Use wire chicken wire to sculpt three-dimensional designs or regular wire to create two-dimensional shapes and letters. Spell out your last name or favorite word, or train your mandevilla vine into the form of a heart, bird, or peace sign.
Mandevilla Flower FAQs:
How Long Do Mandevilla Bloom for?
The Mandevilla blooms during summer and into the fall.
What Is the Ideal Climate for Growing Mandevilla?
Mandevilla is a hardy perennial in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11. They can be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Can Mandevilla Grow in Containers or Indoors?
Mandevilla vines can grow in containers and be grown indoors as long as they have enough sunlight, well-draining soil, and a little humidity.
How Often Should I Water My Mandevilla?
Mandevilla plants prefer even moisture. They should be watered when the top inch or two of soil has dried and be allowed to drain completely.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Plant Mandevilla?
Mandevilla should be planted after spring temperatures consistently exceed 50°F.
How Can I Protect My Mandevilla From Pests and Diseases?
Mandevillas can be protected from pests and diseases by providing them with proper growing conditions and not overwatering them. Additionally, their leaves can be treated with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to prevent infestations.
How Can I Extend the Lifespan of Mandevilla After They’ve Been Cut?
Mandevilla flowers are not popular cut flowers. However, you can extend the freshness of cut mandevilla flowers by placing them in water immediately after cutting, changing their water every two to three days, keeping their stems clean, and keeping the vase out of direct sunlight.
Growing and Loving Your Mandevilla Flowers
Mandevilla vines are relatively easy to grow if they are given hospital growing conditions and vertical support to help them reach great heights. Use them to give your garden a splash of color and fun while bringing its growth into a new dimension.
Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.
Comments are closed.