White Four O'Clock

mirabilis albida

Also known as: ["Four O'Clock Flower","Marvel of Peru"]

Family: Nyctaginaceae Genus: Mirabilis Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial flowering plant native to North America, known for its fragrant white flowers that bloom in the late afternoon.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Nyctaginaceae
Genus: Mirabilis
Botanical Name: Mirabilis albida

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container in a sheltered area
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cool conditions.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
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

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots or lead to death.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Mirabilis albida may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Mirabilis albida can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Mirabilis albida may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Mirabilis albida due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Mirabilis albida is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Mirabilis albida is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Mirabilis albida is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are necessary for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do Mirabilis albida flowers bloom?

A: The flowers typically bloom in the late afternoon or early evening.

Q: Is Mirabilis albida toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Mirabilis albida require much care?

A: It is relatively easy to care for and requires low maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Nyctaginaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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