Care of the climbing plant Mandevilla sanderi or Brazilian jasmine |
|
The genus Mandevilla, family Apocinaceae, comprises 100 species of climbing plants native to Central and South America. Some species are: Mandevilla sanderi, Mandevilla laxa, Mandevilla boliviensis, Mandevilla scabra, Mandevilla splendens. Common name: Brazilian jasmine. This species is native to Brazil. They are fast-growing climbing plants with flexible stems that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in length; in pot they reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet). The leathery leaves are oval in shape with a pointed tip and are bright green. The flowers are 7 cm (2.75") long and can be pink or red with a yellow-orange center. Brazilian jasmine is used as indoor or greenhouse plants; It needs supports or tutors to climb. In tropical or subtropical climates it's used on terraces and patios or to cover pergolas, walls and fences. Mandevilla sanderi needs an illuminated exposure but without receiving directly the rays of the sun. It's a tropical plant that do not resist temperatures below 15 ºC (59 ºF); a winter rest at 16-18 ºC (61-64 ºF) is recommended. The soil can be a mixture, in equal parts, of heather substrate with coarse siliceous sand, peat and leaf mulch. Water frequently with lime-free water in spring and summer. Reduce watering in fall and winter water enough so that the substrate does not dry out completely. The humidity must be high: place a plate with damp stones under the pot and spray the leaves (not the flowers) with lime-free water if the summer is very hot. Fertilize monthly with mineral fertilizer during spring and summer. Prune lightly in late winter to promote new flowering. If the humidity is low, Mandevilla sanderi can be attacked by mites. Brazilian jasmine propagates by cuttings but it's a complicated process; It's advisable to buy new plants in nurseries or garden centers. |
Images of the climbing plant Mandevilla sanderi or Brazilian jasmine |
 Mandevilla sanderi  Mandevilla sanderi  Mandevilla sanderi |