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?

The spectacular, long lasting, 3” conical spikes of silvery feathery bottlebrush-shaped flowers tipped with neon pink bloom late spring through fall.  Sometimes known as Mulla Mulla. It is heat and drought tolerant and ideal for rock, Mediterranean, desert gardens, drifts as well as outstanding in mixed containers and it attracts bees and butterflies. What more could you ask for?

Selecting an appropriate pot for an outdoor plant can be perplexing.  We find many people underestimate the size of container they need and are inclined to select a pot that looks good with the plant at its current size. Here are some pointers on what to consider when selecting your pottery.