Sunday, February 6, 2011

Mandevilla


This large genus   from south and central America consists of around 120 species of mainly tuberous-rooted twining vines, and some perennials and sub shrubs. Rather beautiful fast growing climbers, they have large, deep green, elliptical to lance shaped leaves with prominent drip tips. They produce large numbers of showy trumpet-shaped flowers through out the warmer months  which makes them popular plants for the garden trellis or arch. The 5-lobed flowers grow singly on long stems, and are often large, fragrant in some species  and occur in white to cream and various shades of pink. The genus Mandevilla was named for the nineteenth century British diplomat and gardener Henry Mandevill.




Mandevilla species should be watered regularly during the growth period and    blooming season. Reduce watering during autumn and  keep to bare minimum  during winter.                                                                                          

CULTIVATION

Only few species will tolerate frost the majority generally preferring  a mild to warm climate, dappled sunlight and moist, humus-rich  well drained soil. Occasional feeding will produce  lush foliage but will lead to rampant growth. Propagate from seed in spring or from cuttings in spring or summer.

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