Sweet four o'clock (Mirabilis longiflora)

Sweet four o'clock

Sweet four o'clock is commonly found growing in mixed oak and pine forests and streambeds. It is known as "sweet four o'clock" for its fragrant flowers that open in the late afternoon. They bloom through the evening and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet four o'clock (Mirabilis longiflora)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

White, Purple

Flower Color

Images of Sweet four o'clock

Distribution of Sweet four o'clock

Distribution Map

Sweet four o'clock is native to the major regions of North America, specifically concentrated in a central northern country. It has been introduced and is now cultivated in various parts of Asia and Europe. This expansion illustrates sweet four o'clock's adaptability to diverse environments beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Brushy canyons and banks

Care Guide for Sweet four o'clock

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet four o'clock thrives in humid, tropical environments and tolerates moderate drought. Weekly watering is recommended for optimal health, with consistent moisture essential year-round to sustain its vibrant foliage, particularly during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and blooms, fertilize sweet four o'clock monthly with balanced fertilizers in spring and summer, switching to high-phosphorus mid-season. Use half the dose to prevent root damage. Reduce feeding in fall and stop in winter. Water carefully after fertilization for nutrient integration.

Pruning: Featuring fragrant tubular blooms, sweet four o'clock benefits from periodic pruning in early to late spring. Trim leggy stems to enhance bushiness and flowering, while removing spent flowers and damaged branches promotes vigor. Use clean, sharp tools for disease prevention and swift recovery.

Propagation: Sweet four o'clock is a perennial herbaceous plant with long, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, propagated effectively by cuttings. Select tender stems below a leaf node for planting in well-draining soil, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Using rooting hormones can enhance establishment before transplanting to individual pots.

Repotting: Repot your sweet four o'clock every 2-3 years in spring in a pot 2 inches larger. After repotting, provide ample sunlight and moderate watering for recovery, promoting robust flowering in this night-blooming plant with long tubes and evening fragrance.

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Images of Sweet four o'clock

Distribution of Sweet four o'clock

Care Guide for Sweet four o'clock

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