Contents
Description
Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa, commonly known as the “Four O’Clock Flower,” is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to North America. It is a perennial plant that is well-known for its fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the late afternoon and evening. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, yellow, white, and red, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a pop of color to their landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
Appearance
Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa is a bushy plant that can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are smooth and green, and its flowers are trumpet-shaped and bloom in clusters. The flowers typically measure about 1-2 inches in diameter and open in the late afternoon or early evening, emitting a sweet fragrance. The plant’s blooms last until the following morning when they close up and fall off.
Care Guide
To keep your Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa healthy and thriving, it is important to follow these care tips:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil, so be sure not to overwater it. Water it deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining, sandy loam soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5).- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent these pests, monitor your plant regularly and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Habitat
Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa is native to North America and can be found in grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant, making it a popular plant for xeriscaping.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but be sure to use a well-draining soil mix and water it regularly.
Q: Can Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the best way to prune Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa?
A: Prune your plant in the fall after it has finished flowering. You can trim it back by up to one-third to promote bushier growth.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are closely related to Mirabilis Laevis Var. Retrorsa:- Mirabilis Jalapa (Four O’Clocks)- Bougainvillea- Portulaca grandiflora (Moss Rose)- Pentas lanceolata (Egyptian Star Cluster)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Mirabilis laevis var. retrorsa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c279- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Mirabilis laevis var. retrorsa. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/four-oclock-mirabilis-laevis-var-retrorsa/
