Dipladenia is an older name for this plant and is synonymous with mandevilla (Mandevilla spp.), which is a member of the Apocynaceae family. You may still find plants listed under the old name, but are more than likely to find them listed as mandevillas. These evergreen tropical vines, known for their elaborate display of large, colorful flowers grow as perennials in frost-free climates located in USDA zones 9 through 11. However, colder areas of the country should grow them as annuals or in containers for protection during winter.
Basic Characteristics
Dipladenia is a twining vine that quickly grows an average of 8 feet tall during the growing season, with some cultivars reaching 20 feet. Because of its vining …show more content…
However, if you live in an extremely hot climate, plant in an area that gets partial shade during the hottest portion of the afternoon. It grows in a wide range of soil types as long as they drain well and has a low tolerance to salty conditions, so it’s not a suitable choice planted directly on beachfront properties.
Basic Growth …show more content…
Moderately tolerant to drought, plants grown in the garden should thrive with weekly water applications and a layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture. During the growing season, monthly applications of a general-purpose, liquid house plant fertilizer will keep it healthy and growing to its maximum potential. Follow specific package instructions on amounts and if using granular types, spread under and around the plant, being sure to keep it off the foliage and from butting against the bottom branches. Water the product into the soil after applying and wash any fertilizer off the foliage so burning doesn’t occur. In addition, while the dipladenia is actively growing, you can prune some of the branches back to almost ground level to promote branching and additional blooms. Always use sterilized pruning tools so you don’t transfer any diseases to the dipladenia, which is as easy as wiping the blades off with rubbing