Genus of about 120 species of mainly tuberous-rooted, woody-stemmed, twining climbers, with some perennials, from tropical woodland in Central and South America. Opposite, simple leaves are borne on stems containing a milky latex. Dipladenia can be grown as a climber, reaching 10 ft. or more, or you can grow it as a bush. Large flowers appear in summer. The pink blossoms appear on the plant while it is still small, and the glossy leaves make it attractive all year round. Vigorous evergreen twining vine with thick, dark, 4" long leaves and whorled trumpet-like 3-5" flowers in various colors. Landscape use only in frost-free zones. Great trellised in containers or in hanging baskets. Mandevilla and Dipladenia are absolutely confused botanically and taxonomically. From the horticultural point of view, they may be treated the same. Contact with sap may irritate skin. All parts may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.