Chilean Jasmine
Mandevilla laxa
NEMBA category
English: Chilean Jasmine
Synonyms, misapplied or old scientific names: Amblyanthera bridgesii, Amblyanthera suaveolens, Echites laxus, Echites suaveolens, Mandevilla bridgesii, Mandevilla suaveolens, Mandevilla tweedieana
This vine adds a touch of elegance with its fragrant white flowers but also poses challenges due to its invasive nature. Mandevilla laxa is commonly known as Chilean Jasmine. This vigorous climber can reach impressive heights, making it both a gardener's delight and, in some areas, a cause for concern.
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Origins: Native to southern Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and northern Argentina
Overall appearance: A vigorous, woody, twining vine with glossy green foliage and clusters of fragrant white flowers
Height: Up to 6 metres
Width: Approximately 3.6 to 4.5 metres
Leaves: Glossy, mid-green, ovate with entire margins, up to 15 cm long and 4 cm wide
Thorns or spines: None
Flowers: Fragrant, white, trumpet-shaped, up to 7 cm across and 5 cm long, appearing on current year's growth
Flowering season: Summer months
Fruits: Bean-like pods that are initially green, maturing to brown and splitting to disperse seeds
Seeds: Contained within the bean-like pods, dispersed upon pod splitting
Roots: Tuberous roots, characteristic of many Mandevilla species
Soil type: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils
Aspect: Prefers full sun but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer areas
Toxicity: Parts of the plant may cause mild stomach upset if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation
Derivation of name and historical aspects: The genus Mandevilla was named in honour of Henry Mandeville (1773–1861), a British diplomat and gardener
Interesting Facts
Despite its common name, Chilean Jasmine is not a true jasmine.
It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
In cooler climates, it may become deciduous, shedding its leaves during winter.
The plant's tuberous roots can store nutrients, aiding its survival during adverse conditions.
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