Mirabilis jalapa

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Four O'Clock, Marvel of Peru

 
Plant photo of: Mirabilis jalapa
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer:

 

Description

Mirabilis jalapa is a tuberous-rooted perennial. Strong, bushy habit gives this plant the appearance of a shrub. Multi-branched stems grow quickly to form a mounded clump 1'-4' high and wide. Scented, trumpet-shaped flowers in red, yellow, white or striped bloom in summer, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. Seeds are poisonous. Flowers open in late afternoon, thus the name Four O'Clock. It tolerates full sun to full shade, with regular watering in summer and less in winter.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Perennial

 

Height Range

1-3'

 

Flower Color

Red, Yellow, White, Multi-Colored

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium

 

Growth Rate

Fast

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Poor, Well-drained

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

Invasive, Poisonous

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Tropical, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Raised Planter

 

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers

 

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds, Butterflies

Water Saving Tip:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.