Texas four o'clock (Mirabilis texensis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Texas four o'clock on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Nyctaginaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Texas four o'clock
Mirabilis texensis, commonly known as Texas four o'clock, is a perennial plant native to Texas that produces bright pink, red, or white tubular flowers that open in mid-afternoon and remain open through the night. Its dense, bushy growth habit makes it ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as an accent plant in low-maintenance landscapes. It adds a vibrant touch and attracts nocturnal pollinators.
Native range
Texas and the Southern United States
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, including sandy or rocky types, adapting well to dry conditions. Water moderately once established, as it is quite drought-tolerant; avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot. A common mistake is overwatering, which will compromise its health and flowering. It does not require frequent fertilization and is quite pest-resistant.
How to save a dying Texas four o'clock
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, lack of blooms. Rot at the base if overwatered.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Move to full sun. Remove damaged leaves and stems. Water only when the soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and shade. Does not tolerate waterlogging or lack of direct light. Heavy, compact soil also suffocates it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient. With sun, good drainage, and moderate watering, it usually recovers well.