Trailing windmills
Allionia incarnata · Nyctaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant trailing windmills: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Four o'clock flower incarnate
- Family
- Nyctaginaceae
- Type
- Annual or perennial herb depending on climate
- Flowering
- Summer to fall (June to October)
- Adult size
- 12 to 24 inches in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, semi-evergreen
- Hardiness
- Low hardy, grow as an annual in temperate climates
- Origin
- Central and South America
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period, keeping the soil slightly moist without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter if the plant persists. Once established, it tolerates moderate dry periods well.
Light exposure
Choose a sunny or partially shaded location. At least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight promote abundant flowering. The plant tolerates partial shade but will flower less prolifically.
Soil and drainage
Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter and preferably light. Avoid overly compact or waterlogged soils that cause root asphyxiation. Flowering plant potting mix blended with sand works perfectly.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks during the flowering period. Added potassium promotes flower production. Reduce applications in winter or during dormancy.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly in spring to encourage branching and a compact shape. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. At season's end, eliminate old wood to rejuvenate the plant.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and aphids, especially in dry air. Good air circulation limits fungal problems. Avoid excess foliage moisture, which promotes fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Allionia incarnata bears the common name "four o'clock flower" in its native regions because its pink to red flowers typically open in late afternoon and close the following morning. This fascinating botanical adaptation allows it to optimize pollination by twilight and nocturnal insects—a rare and poetic mechanism in the plant world.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- BougainvilleaBougainvillea
- Four o'clock flowerMirabilis jalapa
- Desert wishbone-bushMirabilis laevis
- Scarlet spiderlingBoerhavia coccinea
- Pisonia macranthocarpaPisonia macranthocarpa
- Red spiderlingBoerhavia diffusa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.