Mandevilla, with its vibrant blooms and lush foliage, is a beloved choice for gardeners seeking to add a touch of tropical splendour to their landscapes. Renowned for their climbing abilities and striking flowers, Mandevilla plants are perfect for creating stunning vertical displays or adding depth to garden beds.
In this article, we explore the general characteristics of the Mandevilla genus, discuss the advantages of selecting well-bred cultivars, and offer essential maintenance tips for these captivating plants.
All Seasons Pink™ Mandevilla.
Exploring the Mandevilla Genus
Mandevilla is a genus of flowering plants native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. These evergreen climbers are celebrated for their ability to transform any garden setting with their show-stopping flowers, which range in colours from white to red and pink. Mandevilla plants are characterised by their glossy, green leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom prolifically throughout the warmer months, making them a favourite for adding exotic beauty to outdoor spaces.
They’re brilliant in the subtropical climate they originate from, with quite a long flowering season, however they’ll often struggle in cooler climates like Melbourne. In poor conditions, they can defoliate, and even experience severe dieback when it gets too hot.
All Seasons Red™ Mandevilla.
Choosing Well-Bred Cultivars
Opting for well-bred Mandevilla cultivars offers several benefits. These cultivars are carefully selected for traits such as improved flowering, disease resistance, and growth habit. When you choose a well-bred cultivar, you ensure consistency in bloom colour and plant form, which is crucial for achieving a harmonious and visually appealing garden design.
The below plants have been bred with better bloom colour, less dieback, a better dense growth habit, and far better tolerance to cold than any other varieties we’ve tested.
The Two Best Mandevilla Cultivars
- All Seasons Pink™ Mandevilla spp ‘MANDI3018 PBR Intended
A standout choice for its cold tolerance, All Seasons Pink™ offers vibrant hot pink flowers that brighten gardens from spring through autumn. Its ability to withstand cooler temperatures means you can enjoy its blooms for an extended season, making it ideal for decorative screening along fence lines and archways. With a height of up to 1.5 metres when supported, this cultivar is perfect for adding instant tropical appeal to any garden setting.
https://www.ozbreed.com.au/plant-ranges/hardy-exotic-range/all-seasons-pink-mandevilla/ - All Seasons Red™ Mandevilla spp ‘MANDI301’ PBR Intended
Known for its striking deep red flowers, All Seasons Red™ shares the cold tolerance of its pink counterpart, thriving in conditions that might challenge other varieties. Its dense, climbing habit makes it perfect for use as a decorative screening plant, offering a vivid splash of colour across residential fence lines and garden arches. This variety reaches up to 1.5 metres in height, providing impressive coverage and visual impact. https://www.ozbreed.com.au/plant-ranges/hardy-exotic-range/all-seasons-red-mandevilla/
Mandevilla Plant Maintenance Tips
Caring for Mandevilla plants is relatively straightforward, making them an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Here are some key tips to help your Mandevilla thrive:
- Sunlight and Temperature:Mandevilla plants flourish in full sun to partial shade. Ensure they receive plenty of light to encourage abundant flowering. While they enjoy warm temperatures, they should be protected from frost and cold winds.
- Watering:Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, regular watering is essential to support healthy growth and blooming. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
- Feeding:Fertilise your Mandevilla with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season to promote vigorous growth and bountiful blooms.
- Pruning:Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth. Remove spent flowers and any dead or damaged stems to keep the plant looking its best.
- Training:After planting, consider training stems horizontally at the bottom of a lattice or fence. New stems will naturally grow upwards from along the stem, giving you better coverage in the long-term than if you train all stems straight up.
All Seasons Red™ Mandevilla.
Conclusion
Mandevilla plants are a stunning addition to any garden, offering vibrant blooms and tropical allure. By selecting well-bred cultivars and following simple maintenance practices, you can enjoy a flourishing Mandevilla display that enhances your outdoor space with beauty and charm.