Mirabilis jalapa , commonly known as four o’clocks , is a fascinating plant that earned its name due to its unequalled flowering conduct . This quondam - fashioned garden ornamental belong to the Nyctaginaceae family , also recognise as the four - o’clock family . One of the most striking characteristic of this flora is that its flowers only open late in the Clarence Day , typically around four o’clock in the good afternoon . This delayed blooming sentence is what inspired the coarse name “ four o’clocks . ”
The intellect behind Mirabilis jalapa ’s late bloom is still a subject of scientific investigation . However , it is believed that the plant life ’s evolutionary version to pull specific pollinator plays a significant office . By open up its flowers in the late good afternoon , four o’clocks have a higher chance of attracting evening pollinators such as moths and nocturnal insects . These insect are often attracted to the strong sweetness emitted by the flower , which is most strong during the evening hours .
Mirabilis jalapa is a tender perennial , meaning it can survive year - unit of ammunition in warm climates ( geographical zone 7 - 10 ) . However , in regions with cold winters , it is in general grown as an yearbook . This plant is well - love for its colourful and showy flowers , which come in a wide scope of hues , including livid , pink , red , icteric , and even multicolored varieties . The flowers are trump - shaped and have five petal , creating an attractive display when they in the end open in the late afternoon .
develop four o’clocks can be an gratifying experience for gardeners of all skill levels . These plants prefer full Dominicus to partial refinement and well - draining soil . They are comparatively downhearted - maintenance and can endure a mixed bag of territory conditions , make believe them various additions to garden beds or container plantings .
One interesting face of Mirabilis jalapa is its ability to ego - sow . Once the flowers have bloomed and produce seeds , they can drop to the reason and develop in the following year . This rude self - multiplication can precede to new plant sprouting in unexpected locations , adding a touch of capriciousness to the garden .
In my own gardening experience , I have found four o’clocks to be a delightful addition to my bloom bed . The prevision of the flowers open up in the late afternoon always make for a sense of excitement and wonder . honor the various pollinators , such as moths and bees , visiting the flowers during the evening hours is a captivating tidy sum .
Mirabilis jalapa , or four o’clocks , is a sorcerous and singular plant life with its late - opening prime . Its name perfectly appropriate this bewitching feature . Whether you opt to uprise it as a attendant perennial or an annual , this old - fashioned garden ornamental is sure to contribute beauty and intrigue to any garden stage setting .
Caroline Bates
