Brazilian jasmine

mandevilla sanderi

Also known as: ["Dipladenia sanderi","Mandevilla splendens"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Mandevilla Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, evergreen vine with glossy leaves and showy, funnel-shaped flowers, native to South America.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Mandevilla
Botanical Name: Mandevilla sanderi

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor trellis in frost-free areas
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions, less often in humid environments
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too intense.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid shaded spots.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers warm conditions; protect from frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from air conditioning vents; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during spring and summer, monthly in fall, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid foliage contact.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; trim roots if necessary.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to soil; rinse tools afterward.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Mandevilla sanderi may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Mandevilla sanderi can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Mandevilla sanderi are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Mandevilla sanderi is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Mandevilla sanderi if they ingest any part of the plant. The toxic compounds can cause gastrointestinal and systemic effects, similar to those in dogs.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care promptly.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Mandevilla sanderi by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other toxic effects due to the presence of toxic compounds. The plant may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Mandevilla sanderi contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Wear gloves when handling to prevent skin contact with sap.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Mandevilla sanderi?

A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, adjusting for humidity and temperature.

Q: Does Mandevilla sanderi require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Q: Is Mandevilla sanderi toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Kingsville milkweed
View
Swamp Milkweed
View
Starfish Flower Stapelia
View
Periwinkle
View