Mirabilis jalapa
Four O'clock Flower
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Four O'clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa) - Description
Mirabilis jalapa (The four o'clock flower or marvel of Peru) is the most commonly grown ornamental species of Mirabilis, and is available in a range of colours. Mirabilis in Latin means wonderful and Jalapa is a not uncommon placename in Central and North America. Mirabilis jalapa is said to have been exported from the Peruvian Andes in 1540.
Four O'clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa) - Growth
Four O'Clocks will die back to the ground in a frost, but generally resprout from their large, tuberous roots. They do best in full sun, although they can tolerate partial shade. In partial shade, the plant can get leggy or lanky.
Four O'clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa) - Planting
Seeds should be sown in Spring or Fall. Once established the plants will readily self sow.
Four O'clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa) - Interesting facts
The genus name Mirabilis is derived from Latin and means "wonderful". Interestingly enough, flowers on the same plant can have different colors. Members of this genus are called Four O'Clocks because the flowers open in the late afternoon, which is rather anomalous since most flowers open during the day. Seeds and roots are poisonous if ingested.
Four O'clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa) - Soil and irrigation
Relatively drought tolerant. Require soil that is well draining and rather porous as they cannot tolerate waterlogged soils for very long. Additionally, Four O'Clocks thrive in soils that are just below neutral in pH to slightly alkaline (6.5-8.5).
