Dipladenia and Mandevilla – How They Differ
Dipladenia and Mandevilla – How They Differ
Both Dipladenia and Mandevilla are beloved for their brilliant, showy trumpet shaped flowers in shades of red, coral, pink, yellow and white. These evergreen, tender, tropical plants flower profusely in summer to late fall/early winter in the Bay Area and attract hummingbirds and bees. They look alike – so what are the differences between them?
Dipladenia, commonly known as rock trumpet, are small, slightly sprawling, evergreen shrublets. The smooth glossy, fine and pointed, deep green leaves are clean and attractive. The flowers and the foliage are typically smaller than Mandevilla and the stems dangle or cascade. They are outstanding in containers and hanging baskets due to their compact size and form. They are a South American native that grow in tropical forests. There are more than 100 Depladenia species in cultivation.
Mandevilla are evergreen vines with large, broad, medium to deep green leaves. Growing much larger, a Mandevilla will wrap their stems around and climb whatever support structure it can reach. It is commonly known as Chilean jasmine or, just to confuse things further, rock trumpet. They are outstanding on a fence, trellis or arbor and some species can grow to 20’. Although a climber, with pruning, you can train Mandevilla into a shrub like form. There are more than 200 species.
Both geniuses grow best in full sun on the coast to part-shade inland in well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. For the best show of blooms, they need warm temperatures, regular water, and monthly fertilizer. Prune or pinch back in early spring to control size and encourage a fuller, more dense shape. Protect from frost and excessive winter water which can cause root rot.
Dipladenia
The Sundenia series is considered a breeding breakthrough, combining large 3-5” Mandevilla size flowers with the compact growth of the species. They are 2’ x 2’ evergreen shrubs with dark green, puckered foliage with large, 3-5” flowers that bloom through summer.
‘Sundenia White’
Crisp white flowers with a yellow throat.
‘Sundenia Coral’
Brilliant rich pink with red undertones with yellow throat.
‘Sundenia Red’
Brilliant red flowers with yellow throat.
Mandevilla
‘Velvet Red’
Evergreen vine spreading to 15-20 feet; larger with age. Climbs by twining vines and requires support. Very dark red, parasol shaped flowers with vibrant yellow stamens. This is a cultivar known to tolerate cold and heat better than other varieties.
‘Sun Parasol Original Sunbeam
The Sun Parasol series has more bushy, compact growth 1-2’ x 2-3’. It is a profuse bloomer with bright yellow, parasol shaped 2-3” flowers with prominent orange-yellow throats. Prune after blooming to control growth.