Four o'clock flower (Mirabilis jalapa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Four o'clock flower 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 Four o'clock flower
Mirabilis jalapa, commonly known as Four o'clock flower or Marvel of Peru, is a perennial herbaceous plant, often grown as an annual, famous for its fragrant flowers that open in the late afternoon and remain open throughout the night. Its trumpet-shaped flowers can be various colors (white, yellow, pink, red, or bicolored) and are a delightful sight in gardens, pots, and borders, attracting nocturnal pollinators. It's ideal for creating a perfumed nocturnal atmosphere on patios and balconies.
Native range
Tropical Americas, from the southern United States to South America
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure or partial shade, especially in very hot climates where afternoon shade is beneficial. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth and flowering periods; reduce watering in winter if the plant is kept. It thrives in well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soils. A common mistake is lack of space, as its tuberous roots can grow considerably.
How to save a dying Four o'clock flower
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, no flowering, soft stems. Can be due to under or overwatering.
- First aid
- Check soil. If dry, water deeply; if soggy, drain and improve substrate. Ensure sun.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging or total shade. Does not tolerate intense cold or frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. With sun, good drainage, and proper watering, it recovers quickly.