Mirabilis jalapa (Marvel of Peru)

Mirabilis jalapa (Marvel of Peru) is a shrub-like, erect and spreading, tuberous perennial often grown as an annual, with clusters of fragrant flowers from summer to fall. The trumpet-shaped, tubular blossoms, 2 in. long (5 cm), open in the afternoon (hence the four o’clock common name) and have a strong, sweet-smelling fragrance. They remain open until the following morning. Available in a wide range of colors, they are produced in shades of white, yellow, pink, magenta, and red and may even be bicolored. The blossoms appear in terminal or axillary clusters on erect, branching stems clad with ovate, bright green leaves, to 4 in. long (10 cm). Blooming over an incredibly long season, they attract hummingbirds and butterflies and give way to large, dark, leathery fruits in the fall. This old-fashioned garden ornamental is a tender perennial that is killed to the ground by frost but resprout from its large tuberous roots. Place it along walkways or near patios where the night-blooming flowers and fragrance can be enjoyed.

• Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall and wide (60-90 cm). This plant self-seeds freely in optimum growing conditions.
• Performs best in full sun, in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Shelter from cold, drying winds and provide a dry mulch in winter to protect from excessive winter wet.
• A welcomed addition to Mediterranean gardens, cottage gardens, or containers. This sturdy plant can also be used as an annual hedge if planted close together.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Keep an eye out for aphids and slugs.
• Sow seed directly in the garden after the last frost date, or start seed indoors 6-8 weeks earlier. Tuberous roots may be dug in fall (like dahlias) and stored over winter in dry, cool but frost-free conditions.
• Cut back prior to lifting tubers.
• Propagate by seed in early spring, germinating at 55-65°F (13-18°C). Propagate by division of tubers in spring.
• Ingestion may cause severe discomfort
• Native to Tropical America.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States. Mirabilis multiflora is a beautiful U.S. native plant alternative