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Description
Mirabilis Laevis is a species of flowering plant in the Nyctaginaceae family, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is commonly known as Desert Four O’Clock due to its habit of blooming in the late afternoon. The plant is a perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a thick, fleshy root system that allows it to survive in arid environments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
Appearance
The leaves of Mirabilis Laevis are green and lance-shaped, growing up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in a range of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and white. They bloom from late spring to early fall, opening in the late afternoon and closing the following morning. The plant produces a small, round fruit that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Mirabilis Laevis is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mirabilis Laevis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. Occasionally, spider mites and aphids may attack the plant. These can be treated with a general-purpose insecticide. Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet, so it is important to ensure proper drainage.
Habitat
Mirabilis Laevis is native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in sandy, well-draining soil. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including washes, canyons, and hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mirabilis Laevis be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Mirabilis Laevis indoors, it prefers full sun exposure and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: How often should Mirabilis Laevis be fertilized?
A: Mirabilis Laevis can be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mirabilis Laevis?
A: Mirabilis Laevis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: How often should Mirabilis Laevis be watered?
A: Mirabilis Laevis should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Related Plants
- Mirabilis Jalapa
- Mirabilis Longiflora
- Mirabilis Hirsuta
- Mirabilis Linearis
References
- “Mirabilis laevis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282732&isprofile=1&basic=Mirabilis.
- “Desert Four O’Clock.” Arizona State University. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Desert%20Four%20O’Clock.php.
- “Mirabilis laevis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MILA10.
