Mirabilis jalapa, also known as the Four O’Clock flower, is a beautiful heirloom variety admired for its vibrant blooms that open in the late afternoon and evening. With flowers appearing in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white—sometimes even on the same plant—it creates a striking display in borders, beds, and containers. Easy to grow and low-maintenance, this variety brings charm and fragrance to any garden.
Features:
-
Classic heirloom Mirabilis jalapa variety
-
Produces colorful evening-blooming flowers
-
Suitable for flower beds, borders, and containers
-
Easy to grow with minimal care required
-
Attracts pollinators to the garden
Specifications:
-
Plant Type: Tender perennial often grown as an annual
-
Height: 18–36 inches
-
Bloom Time: Summer to frost
-
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
-
Soil Preference: Well-draining garden soil
-
Zones: USDA hardiness zones 7–11 (grown as an annual in cooler regions)
-
Planting Season: Spring after the last frost
Planting & Sowing Instructions:
-
Pre-Soaking: Soak seeds in water overnight to speed up germination.
-
Direct Sowing: Plant seeds directly outdoors after the last frost. Sow 1 inch deep in well-prepared soil and cover lightly.
-
Indoor Sowing: Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost and transplant outdoors when seedlings are strong.
-
Spacing: Allow 12–18 inches between plants for healthy growth.
-
Care Tips: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering and encourage fresh growth.
