Growing Dipladenia (Mandevilla sanderi) in Pittsburgh, PA

Several years ago while perusing the flower aisles at my local garden center store I stumbled across a nice display of Rio Dipladenia flowers. The bright pink tropical flowers were so pretty – and on sale! Of course, I bought one!

And, like most on-a-whim garden purchases, I had no idea how to care for it or even whether it was an annual flower or if it would rebloom more than once. Fortunately, I did some research on it and I’m quite excited that not only will it stay alive if I bring it indoors every winter, it will also keep blooming!

If you’re curious about growing Dipladenia flowers, this post will get you started in no time to know how to care for your plant and tips for growing it in a container if you live in a northern colder climate so you too can bring it indoors for the winter! 

Plant Care Guide: Dipladenia (Mandevilla sanderi)

Dipladenia is a bushy, compact tropical vine prized for glossy foliage and vibrant trumpet-shaped blooms that flower continuously in warm weather.
At a Glance

• Plant Type: Broadleaf Evergreen Vine / Tropical Flowering Shrub
• Hardiness Zones: Zones 10–11 (Perennial) / Annual in colder zones
• Mature Size: 1–3 ft H x 1–2 ft W (vining up to 8 ft)
• Uses: Ornamental Landscape Focus, Patio Containers, Pollinator Magnet, Trellis Climber

Care Requirements

Sun & Light: Full Sun / Bright Indirect Light

Water: Medium / Moderate Moisture

Soil: Nutrient-Rich / Well-Drained

How to Propagate

• Stem Cuttings (with rooting hormone)
• Layering
• Seeds

Important Safety & Health

Caution: TOXIC TO PETS & HUMANS if ingested (contains milky latex sap). The sap causes skin and eye irritation.

Common Pests & Diseases

• Root Rot (Phytophthora/Pythium from overwatering)
• Powdery Mildew
• Botrytis
• Spider Mites & Mealybugs

History & Symbolism

• History: Native to South America (Brazil); widely cultivated globally as a compact, bushier alternative to traditional Mandevilla vines.
• Symbolism: Resilience, Passion, Summer Energy, Growth & Elevation, Warmth

I'm happy to report that after having it for several years now, this plant keeps growing and doing well. It lives on our back deck in bright indirect light all summer and then comes indoors in the winter. We have flowers every season and this particular one seems to be very pest and disease resistant!

Have you tried growing Dipladenia? Share your experiences in the comments below!