What Kind of House Plant Is Dipladenia?

Sometimes called the red riding hood or Mandevilla sanderi, the dipladenia originates in the tropical areas of the Caribbean and grows wild in southern parts of Florida. Elsewhere in the United States, the dipladenia is a popular houseplant.

Structure

The dipladenia grows in a spreading manner and requires support to stand upright. Growers control the height that the dipladenia reaches with the size of the support structure.

Flowers

The flowers of the dipladenia reach average sizes of 4 inches in width and 2 inches in length and feature five bright red petals surrounding a vibrant yellow center, explains the University of Florida.

Foliage

The glossy green leaves of the dipladenia have an ovular shape and average 4 to 8 inches in length, according to the University of Florida. The leaves of the dipladenia are evergreen, remaining they stay in place all year.

Fruit

The dipladenia produces a small, brown non-edible fruit that is not usually noticeable among the foliage and flowers.

Preferences

Dipladenia houseplants prefer high humidity, well-drained soil, and bright, full sun, suggests North Carolina State University.

References

• University of Florida: Mandevilla sanderi 'Red Riding Hood'
• North Carolina State University: Houseplant List