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Description
Mirabilis Latifolia, commonly known as the wide-leaf four o’clock, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and it is often found in desert regions. The plant is known for its large leaves and showy flowers, which bloom in the late afternoon and early evening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
Appearance
Mirabilis Latifolia is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are 6-8 inches long and 4-6 inches wide. The leaves are medium green in color and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The flowers of the plant are trumpet-shaped and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and white. The flowers are typically around 2 inches in diameter and bloom in clusters.
Care Guide
To care for Mirabilis Latifolia, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant, but it should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilizer should be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Mirabilis Latifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. In colder regions, the plant should be brought indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mirabilis Latifolia is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if it is overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. Common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
Mirabilis Latifolia is native to arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is often found in desert regions, and it prefers sandy or rocky soils with good drainage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mirabilis Latifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mirabilis Latifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: How often should Mirabilis Latifolia be fertilized?
A: Mirabilis Latifolia should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the blooming season for Mirabilis Latifolia?
A: The flowers of Mirabilis Latifolia typically bloom from mid-summer to fall.
Q: How much sunlight does Mirabilis Latifolia require?
A: Mirabilis Latifolia requires full sun exposure to thrive.
Related Plants
- Mirabilis Jalapa
- Mirabilis Hirsuta
- Mirabilis Odoratissima
- Mirabilis Longiflora
References
- “Mirabilis Latifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k510
- “Mirabilis Latifolia.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/57443/
- “Mirabilis Latifolia.” Arizona State University. https://www.public.asu.edu/~camartin/plants/Plant%20html%20files/mirabilislatifolia.html
