Mirabilis jalapa
TAXONOMY
FamilyNyctaginaceae
GenusMirabilis
Zone7
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Mirabilis jalapa, commonly known as the Four O'Clock Flower or Marvel of Peru, is a perennial plant native to tropical South America. It is known for its vibrant, fragrant flowers that open in the late afternoon and close by morning. The plant thrives in subtropical climates and can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has a dormancy period during the colder months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Beauty Of The Night
Four-O'clock
Four O'clock Flower
Marvel-Of-Peru
Nyctago Hortensis
Nyctago Versicolor
Jalapa officinalis
Mirabilis jalapa subsp. lindheimeri
Mirabilis jalapa var. jalapa
Mirabilis jalapa var. lindheimeri
Mirabilis lindheimeri
Nyctago jalapae
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Mirabilis jalapa requires moderate temperatures and should be placed in a location where it can receive bright, direct sunlight for several hours a day. The plant prefers moderate humidity and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. It is important to protect the plant from frost during its dormancy period.Soil
The Four O'Clock Flower prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but thrives best in soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.Repotting
Repot Mirabilis jalapa every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagate the Four O'Clock Flower through seeds or tuber division. Seeds can be sown in the spring, while tubers can be divided during the plant's dormancy period. Ensure the tubers are healthy and have at least one growth node before planting.Pruning
Prune the plant to remove dead or damaged stems and to encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and promotes more blooms.Toxicity
Mirabilis jalapa is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The seeds and roots are particularly toxic and can cause gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Mirabilis jalapa is known for its ability to produce flowers of different colors on the same plant, making it a unique and attractive addition to gardens. The plant is also relatively pest-resistant, but it is important to monitor for common garden pests such as aphids and spider mites.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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