Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Climbers
Exotic (South American) | Moderate Care | Climbers
Dipladenia (now often sold as Mandevilla) is a showy, tropical-looking climber or bushy plant with large, glossy, dark green leaves and big, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of hot pink, red or white.
The flowers appear over a long season from spring through autumn, and they bring a bold, lush, tropical feel to a sunny spot. It is not a heavy climber; the bushy forms can be grown as standalone shrubs or in containers, while the climbing forms need a trellis or support. It handles coastal warmth well, but it is not as tough as the indigenous options: it needs shelter from the harshest winds, richer soil, more regular watering and protection from any unusual frost. That earns it the moderate rating.
Bushy forms: about 1 m. Climbing forms: 2 to 3 m with support.
Moderate.
Container on a sunny patio, trellis or pillar, hanging basket, colour accent. Best in a sheltered, warm, sunny position.
Full sun for the best flowering. Tolerates semi-shade but with fewer flowers.
Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost. It is a hungry plant that needs good soil to perform.
Moderate to high. Water regularly through the growing season. Not drought-tolerant. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Feed every two to three weeks through spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser or a flowering fertiliser.
Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged growth and to shape. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Ask about availability. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right plant for your spot.
