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Description
Mirabilis Linearis, also known as Narrowleaf Four O’Clock, is a flowering plant that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden. The flowers of Mirabilis Linearis are trumpet-shaped and can be pink or white. This plant is known for its sweet fragrance, and its flowers bloom in the late afternoon.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
Appearance
Mirabilis Linearis has long, narrow leaves that can be up to 6 inches long. The leaves are green and smooth, with a slightly waxy texture. The flowers of Mirabilis Linearis are trumpet-shaped and can be pink or white. They bloom in the late afternoon and stay open all night, releasing a sweet fragrance that attracts moths and other pollinators.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and growth of Mirabilis Linearis, it is important to follow these care guidelines:- Water: Mirabilis Linearis requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during very hot or dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Mirabilis Linearis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Mirabilis Linearis needs full sun to part shade. Plant it in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Mirabilis Linearis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Although Mirabilis Linearis is generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Some of the most common include:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow or brown. Control spider mites by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using an insecticidal soap.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. Control powdery mildew by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Control root rot by improving drainage and reducing watering.
Habitat
Mirabilis Linearis is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including desert washes, rocky slopes, and grasslands. This plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought well.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mirabilis Linearis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mirabilis Linearis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Mirabilis Linearis be fertilized?
A: Mirabilis Linearis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best way to control spider mites on Mirabilis Linearis?
A: Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using an insecticidal soap.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mirabilis Linearis?
A: Mirabilis Linearis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Related Plants
– Mirabilis Jalapa- Mirabilis Hirsuta- Mirabilis Multiflora- Mirabilis Pumila- Mirabilis Bigelovii
References
– “Mirabilis Linearis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 30, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n860.- “Mirabilis Linearis.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 30, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mirabilis+linearis.
