Four o'clock flower
Mirabilis jalapa · Nyctaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant four o'clock flower: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to October
- Adult size
- 24 to 35 inches in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-sensitive (grow as an annual in cold climates)
- Origin
- Mexico
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light to rich
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil doesn't dry out completely. In summer, increase watering frequency. Reduce watering in fall and let the soil dry more in winter if you're keeping the plant. Avoid standing water, which causes root rot.
Light exposure
Four o'clock flowers prefer a sunny to semi-shaded location. They bloom best with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial. Good light exposure promotes abundant flowering.
Soil
Grow four o'clock flowers in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A standard potting mix based on peat and sand works perfectly. You can enrich the soil with decomposed compost when planting.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer every 15 to 20 days during flowering. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Moderate feeding with phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizer stimulates abundant blooming.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch off stem tips in spring to encourage a bushy shape. Remove faded flowers regularly to prolong blooming. In late fall, you can cut back the plant or grow it as an annual. Clean up yellowed or damaged foliage.
Diseases and pests
Four o'clock flowers are generally hardy. They can be affected by spider mites in dry conditions or powdery mildew if humidity is excessive. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage. In case of infestation, appropriate treatment or a water rinse is often sufficient.
Did you know?
The four o'clock flower owes its name to its tubular flowers that typically open late in the afternoon and close the next morning. This fascinating botanical characteristic was well known to botanists in the 17th century, who already called it the "four o'clock flower" because of its predictable opening cycle.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.