Mandevilla sanderi aka Brazilian Jasmine

Taxonomy

Mandevilla sanderi, commonly known as Brazilian jasmine, is a rapidly growing, creeping, perennial vine of the genus Mandevilla. Endemic to the State of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, it has a naturally bushy habit that can reach 2-3 meters’ (7-10 ft) high, or 4.5 meters (15 ft) when the climate is warm. It is evergreen, with petiolate, thick, leathery, dark green leaves growing to about 6 cm (2.5 in) long, and with a glossy upper surface and a thick epidermis. The plant contains a white latex, which is toxic and can irritate the skin. It distinguishes itself through lignin-based, long, woody stems that twist around a support, and tuberous roots holding a reserve of water, allowing it to withstand drought. Grown as an indoor houseplant in temperate regions, it needs bright indirect light, average room temperature, and high humidity. However, it is prone to attracting mealybugs, aphids and scale insects.

Common names

Brazilian Jasmine, Chilean Jasmine, Red Robin

How to care for Brazilian Jasmine

Difficulty

Brazilian Jasmine requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Brazilian Jasmine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Brazilian Jasmine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Brazilian Jasmine requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Brazilian Jasmine will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Brazilian Jasmine is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

The Brazilian Jasmine does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Brazilian Jasmine should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Brazilian Jasmine’s native range is Southwest United States to South America and the Caribbean.

Flower

If you provide your Brazilian Jasmine with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia