Four o'clock flower - Mirabilis jalapa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Four o'clock flower

Also known as: False jalap

Four o'clock flower (Mirabilis jalapa), also known as the marvel of Peru, is a perennial, herbaceous, bushy plant with fragrant, showy flowers, commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes. During bloom time, its flowers are closed most of the day; they open between four and eight o'clock, hence the common name four o'clock flower.

Scientific classification

Species

Four o'clock flower (Mirabilis jalapa)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

60 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

80 cm to 1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, White, Red, Pink, Purple, Orange, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Four o'clock flower

Distribution of Four o'clock flower

Distribution Map

Four o'clock flower is native to Mexico and Central America. It has been widely naturalized in much of the world. Its preferred ecosystem is at low altitudes in disturbed or weedy ground.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadows, fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The four o'clock flower is typically grown in borders, beds, and containers of cottage and Mediterranean gardens. In addition, it can be used as a flowering shrub for landscape purposes when planted close together. They are well paired with Asiatic lilies, French marigolds, and Nasturtium.

Symbolism

Chastity, simplicity, exquisiteness, speculation, suspicion, maturity, timidity, cowardice, solace

Interesting Facts

It is rich in color, commonly in red, yellow, white and variegated. When it blooms in summer, a limb is densely covered with its many different colors, very lovely and beautiful. The flowers are charming and fragrant. They are often planted in flowerbeds and on the roadside for ornamental purposes. They can also be made into bonsais and placed at home for viewing.

Name Story

Four o'clock flower: This plant is considered as the 'night owl' among the plants. The flowers of this plant usually bloom in the evening or dusk (between 4 and 8 o'clock). The flowers that bloom in the evening produce a strong aroma but these flowers shut in the morning and do not open new flowers until the next evening. Therefore, it's called a four o'clock flower.

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Toxicity

Four o'clock flower can cause toxic symptoms in humans, cats, and dogs if ingested or touched. All parts are toxic with seeds, roots, and sap being of special concern. Ingestion or contact can cause gastrointestinal issues and dermatitis in humans, and gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs. Immediate veterinary care is recommended for pets if ingestion occurs.

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Quickly Identify Four o'clock flower

Late afternoon blooming flowers in vibrant red, white, yellow, or bicolored patterns.

Distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers with a 5-lobed structure, measuring 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long.

Leathery, rounded fruit with 5 pronounced longitudinal ribs, maturing to dark brown or black.

Pointed oval leaves up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long with a smooth surface.

Robust, semi-woody perennial reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height with showy floral displays.

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Care Guide for Four o'clock flower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in tropical environments, four o'clock flower prefers consistent moisture and tolerates drought. It benefits from weekly watering to maintain health. Typically grown outdoors, four o'clock flower leverages natural rainfall to enhance its flowering potential during the growing season.

Fertilize: Feed four o'clock flower with balanced fertilizers bi-weekly during the growing season for optimal health and growth. In winter, reduce feeding to once monthly. Use diluted granular or liquid fertilizers to prevent root burn, or opt for controlled-release options for steady nutrition.

Pruning: Four o'clock flower blooms vibrantly in late afternoon and thrives with early to late spring pruning, focusing on leggy or dead stems. Light pruning enhances air circulation, preventing mildew and pests, while removing spent flowers promotes continuous blooms throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Four o'clock flower is ideally propagated through tubers in spring. Successful propagation is indicated by the presence of sprouting leaves and roots. For optimal results, it is crucial to ensure tubers are healthy and free from diseases.

Repotting: Plant four o'clock flower requires pots with excellent drainage to thrive, ensuring proper moisture levels are maintained and preventing root rot.

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Images of Four o'clock flower

Distribution of Four o'clock flower

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Four o'clock flower

Care Guide for Four o'clock flower

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