Four o'clock flower
mirabilis jalapa
Also known as: ["Marvel of Peru","Marvel flower","Four o'clock"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant known for its fragrant, colorful flowers that open in the late afternoon.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Mirabilis |
| Botanical Name: | Mirabilis jalapa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in heat but can tolerate mild cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in fall; use a balanced formula for blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of tubers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out tangled roots; place tuber slightly above soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for tuber growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; handle tuber carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may yellow or drop; flowering ceases in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaves may scorch or curl; reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the roots or seeds of Mirabilis jalapa. The saponins in these parts can irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Mirabilis jalapa roots and seeds can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMirabilis jalapa contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The roots and seeds are the most toxic parts due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do the flowers only open in the late afternoon?
A: The flowers of Mirabilis jalapa are naturally adapted to open in the late afternoon and evening, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty, which helps attract nocturnal pollinators.
Q: Is the plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Mirabilis jalapa is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Q: How should I care for this plant?
A: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water moderately and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
