White four o'clock (Mirabilis albida)
Care, watering, light and tips for White four o'clock on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Nyctaginaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About White four o'clock
Mirabilis albida, commonly known as 'White Four O'clock', is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Nyctaginaceae family, valued for its fragrant white flowers that open in the late afternoon. Its tubular flowers and bright green foliage make it ideal for garden borders, pots, or as an accent in night-time landscapes. It attracts nocturnal pollinators like moths.
Native range
Northwest Spain and Portugal
Care tips
It prefers full sun to light partial shade and well-drained soil, though it is tolerant of a variety of conditions. Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, poorly draining soils. It is a drought-tolerant plant once established.
How to save a dying White four o'clock
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing, or drooping leaves; sparse or no flowering; slow growth.
- First aid
- Check watering, ensure good soil drainage. Protect from intense direct sun if overexposed.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or extreme lack of water. Also, full shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. With watering and light adjustments, it will recover.