Contents
Description
Mirabilis Multiflora is a species of herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is native to North and Central America and is commonly known as the Colorado Four O’Clock or Showy Four O’Clock. The plant is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers that bloom in late afternoon and stay open until morning. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, have a pleasant fragrance, and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
Appearance
Mirabilis Multiflora has a bushy habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, green, and measure up to 6 inches long. The flowers are clustered at the end of the stems and appear in late afternoon. They are trumpet-shaped and measure up to 2 inches long. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and white, and have a pleasant fragrance. The plant blooms from summer to fall and is a great addition to any garden due to its attractive appearance.
Care Guide
Mirabilis Multiflora is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Mirabilis Multiflora is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mirabilis Multiflora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause deformation of the leaves and flowers. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Fungal diseases: These diseases can cause leaf spots, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. Use a fungicide to control the infestation.
Habitat
Mirabilis Multiflora is native to North and Central America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate hot and dry conditions. It is a great addition to any garden due to its attractive appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mirabilis Multiflora a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Mirabilis Multiflora is a great plant for beginners as it is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Does Mirabilis Multiflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to any wildlife garden.
Q: Can Mirabilis Multiflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mirabilis Multiflora can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Mirabilis Multiflora be pruned?
A: Mirabilis Multiflora does not require regular pruning, but you can prune the plant in the fall or early spring to maintain its shape or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Mirabilis Jalapa
- Mirabilis Longiflora
- Mirabilis Hirsuta
- Mirabilis Nyctaginea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Mirabilis multiflora
- Gardening Know How: Colorado Four O’Clock Care: How To Grow A Colorado Four O’Clock Plant
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Four O’Clocks
