MANDEVILLA (Mandevill'a)

DESCRIPTION:This group consists of about 100 species of tropical, flowering vines belonging to the Periwinkle family, Apocynaceae. Commonly known as Chilean Jasmine, these plants are natives of Argentina. These vines can grow 20 feet or more by means of curling tendrils and are covered in attractive, glossy green leaves, which are arranged opposite each other or whorled on the vine. They bear spikes of 21/2 to 3-inch, trumpet-shaped flowers, which resemble Morning Glories. Chilean Jasmines will bear flowers when they are less than a foot in height. They may be kept under 3 feet by pinching back the growing tips. M. splendens 'Alice du Pont' is beautiful variety that grows up to 30 feet high. It has large, shiny, oval leaves and bears clusters of large, 4- to 5-inch, hot pink, blossoms from spring to autumn.

POTTING: These vines can be grown in tropical, frost-free climates only. Choose a warm, sunny location in moist, fertile soil. They should be grown in full sun, but will tolerate very light shade. Water them frequently, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings, and feed with a bit of 20-20-20 fertilizer throughout the summer every couple of weeks. Keep them drier during the winter and don't fertilize. The stems may be pinched to encourage bushier growth.

PROPAGATION: Stem cuttings may be taken in early spring. Choose side shoots, 2 or 3 inches long, and insert in sandy peat. They may be kept in a closed propagating case until roots form. The rooted cuttings should be potted individually in 3-inch pots. After a few days, pinch the tips of the main shoots to encourage side shoots to form. Once the side shoots grow, transfer them to 5-inch pots. They may be planted outdoors when they are well-rooted in these containers.

SPECIES & VARIETIES: M. splendens var. Alice du Pont; M. amoena; M. boliviensis; M. sanderi 'Rosea'; M. laxa (suaveolans); M. boliviensis.

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