Mirabilis longiflora (Angels Trumpets)

Mirabilis longiflora (Angels Trumpets) is a shrub-like, tuberous perennial often grown as an annual, with clusters of exquisitely fragrant flowers from summer to fall. Borne in great profusion, its incredibly long, very slender, white trumpets, 6 in. long (15 cm), open in the afternoon and release a sweet orange-blossom fragrance. Their purpled fused center provides a purple stamen that protrudes outside the flower accompanied by red colored anthers. The blossoms remain open until the following morning. They appear in terminal or axillary clusters on erect, branching stems clad with sticky, bright apple-green heart shaped leaves. Blooming over an incredibly long season, they attract night insects including hummingbird moths. Mirabilis longiflora is a tender perennial that is killed to the ground by frost, but resprouts 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).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade, in well-drained soils. Shelter from cold, drying winds and provide a dry mulch in winter to protect from excessive winter wet. Heat and drought tolerant, it does well in dry, desert conditions.
• A welcomed addition to cottage gardens or containers.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Keep an eye out for aphids and slugs.
• Sow seed directly in the garden after last frost date, or start seed indoors 6-8 weeks earlier. Tuberous roots may be dug in fall (like dahlias) and stored overwinter in dry, cool but frost-free conditions.
• Cut back prior to lifting tubers.
• Propagate by seed in early spring, germinate at 55-65°F (13-18°C). Propagate by division of tubers in spring.
• Ingestion may cause severe discomfort
• Native to the southwestern United States from Arizona to Texas and northern Mexico.