Desert wishbone-bush
Mirabilis laevis · Nyctaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant desert wishbone-bush: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Smooth four o'clock
- Family
- Nyctaginaceae
- Type
- Perennial or annual herb
- Flowering
- July to October
- Flowers
- Pink, red, white, yellow, or variegated
- Mature size
- 0.6 to 1.2 m in height
- Hardiness
- Non-hardy (frost-sensitive)
- Origin
- South America (Mexico, Peru)
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter if you're keeping the plant beyond its active growth period. Avoid excess moisture, which encourages root rot.
Exposure and light
Place your four o'clock in a sunny or partially shaded location. It appreciates at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering. This plant adapts well to bright spots in the garden or on the terrace.
Substrate and soil
Use well-draining potting soil rich in organic matter. A fertile, light soil promotes harmonious growth. Enrich the substrate with compost or peat to improve nutrient retention without compromising drainage.
Feeding
Fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks during the flowering period with a balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in phosphorus. Reduce or stop fertilizing in autumn and winter. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young plants in spring to encourage branching and a compact shape. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period. Clean the foliage and remove dead or diseased stems throughout the season.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and aphids, especially in dry or warm conditions. Excess moisture can favor fungi like powdery mildew or botrytis. Good air circulation and careful watering prevent most problems.
Did you know?
The four o'clock gets its name from its flowers, which open in late afternoon and close in the morning—a fascinating nycthemeral rhythm! The Aztecs already cultivated this plant and used its roots for medicinal purposes. Its shiny black seeds, housed in a fleshy envelope, resemble tiny pearls and spread naturally throughout the garden.
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
- Scarlet spiderlingBoerhavia coccinea
- Pisonia macranthocarpaPisonia macranthocarpa
- Red spiderlingBoerhavia diffusa
- Trailing windmillsAllionia incarnata
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.