Everything You Need to Know About Four O’Clock Flowers
If you’re a fan of nostalgia, vibrant colors, and easy-care perennials, then you should definitely consider adding four o’clock flowers, also known as Mirabilis jalapa, to your garden. These charming flowers, named after the time of day they bloom, have a rich history and offer a plethora of benefits for your outdoor space.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for four o’clock flowers, from cultivation to propagation to managing pests and diseases. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to add some color to your landscape, this article has you covered.
What Are Four O’Clock Flowers?
Four o’clock flowers are tender perennials that thrive in Zones 7b to 11b, making them a popular choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates. These bushy plants can reach heights of one to four feet and widths of one to three feet, attracting hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with their vibrant blooms.
It’s essential to note that while the flowers of the plant are beautiful and enticing, the roots and seeds are poisonous to animals, so exercise caution if you have pets that like to explore your garden.
Cultivation and History
Mirabilis jalapa is also known as the “marvel of Peru,” hailing from its native tropical South American habitat. The plant has a rich history, with indigenous people using the roots for medicinal purposes and Europeans using the red flowers as food coloring. It became a popular “pass-along” plant in the southern US, with neighbors sharing it amongst themselves to grow in their gardens.
Propagation
Four o’clock flowers are easy to grow from seed, making them an excellent choice for beginners. You can collect seeds at the end of the season to share or start more plants. Alternatively, you can propagate the plants from tubers by digging them up at season’s end and replanting them the following spring.
From Seed
To grow four o’clock flowers from seed, start indoors six to eight weeks ahead of your area’s average last frost date. Germinate the seeds in trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix, keeping them moist and providing ample sunlight. Transplant the seedlings to the garden after they reach a certain height and acclimate them gradually to outdoor conditions.
From Tubers
To propagate from tubers, dig them up at season’s end, store them in a cool, dry place, and replant them the following spring after the last frost.
How to Grow
While four o’clock flowers are known for their hardiness and drought tolerance, they grow healthiest in well-draining soil with added compost or organic material. Plant them in full sun or an area with morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal growth. Additionally, provide supplemental water during dry spells and fertilize them for abundant blooms.
Growing Tips
- Plant in full sun or partial shade.
- Provide supplemental water during dry spells.
- Fertilize regularly to encourage flowering.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pinching back the main stem of immature seedlings can promote sturdy plants and profuse blooming. Remove any unwanted seeds to prevent self-sowing, and prune dead or damaged foliage before cooler temperatures set in.
Cultivars to Select
Four o’clock flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, magenta, lavender, yellow, and white. Consider planting different cultivars to add a splash of color to your garden. Popular cultivars like Kaleidoscope Mix and Marbles Mix offer vibrant, multicolored blooms.
Managing Pests and Disease
While four o’clock flowers are generally resistant to pests and diseases, keep an eye out for aphids and common plant diseases like Fusarium wilt, leaf blight, and rust. Control pests with appropriate measures and treat diseases promptly to ensure the health of your plants.
Saving Seeds
Four o’clock flowers are charming plants that are easy to share with others. Save seeds by collecting them after the flowers fade, drying them thoroughly, and storing them in labeled containers for future planting or gifting.
Best Uses
Four o’clock flowers are versatile plants that can be used in a variety of settings, from cottage gardens to tropical landscapes. Plant them close together for an attractive hedge or in containers for a splash of color on your patio. They also make great gifts for beginner gardeners and fans of nostalgic blooms.
Quick Reference Growing Guide
- Plant Type: Tender perennial flower, often grown as an annual
- Flower/Foliage Color: Bicolor, magenta, pink, variegated, white, yellow/green
- Native to: Tropical South America
- Hardiness (USDA Zones): 7b-11b
- Exposure: Full sun; morning sun and afternoon shade
- Spacing: 12-24 inches
- Height: 18-36 inches, up to 6 feet in ideal conditions
- Water Needs: Low to average
- Maintenance: Low
- Attracts: Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, moths, other pollinators
A Time-Honored Flower Tradition
Four o’clock flowers are a timeless addition to any garden, offering vibrant blooms, easy maintenance, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you remember them from your childhood or are discovering them for the first time, these colorful flowers are sure to brighten up your outdoor space.
So, consider adding some four o’clock flowers to your garden and share the beauty of this old-fashioned favorite with your friends, family, and fellow gardeners. Happy planting!
Do you have any memories or experiences with four o’clock flowers? Share your stories in the comments below!
