How To Grow Four O'Clock Seeds
Latin name Mirabilis jalapa is a frost-tender, herbaceous perennial often grown as an annual in the north. The dainty flowers will close during the heat of the day and open around 4 p.m., hence the name! The blooms attract beneficial insects, moths, and hummingbirds. Plant this fragrant night bloomer alongside moonflowers for a stunning evening display.
HISTORY
Native to the dry, tropical regions of Central and South America. Cultivated by the ancient Aztecs as a medicinal and ornamental plant. The flowers have been used to render a crimson-colored food dye. Be aware that the seeds are considered poisonous. Members of the Kayapo tribe in Brazil pulverize dried flowers into a powder, which they sniff to treat headaches.
USES
- Ornamental
- Beds, borders, containers, landscaping
- Seeds germinate in 7-10 days.
- Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date or direct seed after all chance of frost has passed.
- Soak seeds overnight in warm water before sowing.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Ideal germination temperature is 70-78 F.
- Mirabilis produces a large taproot, which makes it a drought-tolerant plant. However, it will bloom more profusely when given more water.
- Plants prefer full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
- Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Mirabilis is considered a pest-free plant that is also deer resistant.
- The blooms are attractive to a wide range of beneficial insects as well!
- Mirabilis readily reseed in the garden, but you can save seeds for next year's planting as well.
- Perennial in frost-free zones, plants produce tubers similar to dahlias, which can be lifted and saved overwinter in the north.
- Flowers are perfect and self-pollinating but are cross-pollinated by insects. To save seed, simply pick the large, black seed pods from the spent flower heads and allow to dry out of direct sunlight for 7 days. Store in a cool, dry, dark location.
