Also known as 4 O' Clock Plant · Akşam Sefası · Austin Chalk Four-O'clock
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Marvel of Peru (Mirabilis jalapa) is a vibrant, fast-growing flowering plant known for its trumpet-shaped blooms that open in the late afternoon and evening.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce in winter.
Well-drained loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C; sensitive to frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Roots and seeds are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings for optimal health and flowering.
Prune in early spring before new growth emerges to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pinch back stems throughout the growing season to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms.
Deadheading spent flowers can also promote continuous blooming.
Easily propagated from seeds sown directly into the garden after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks prior. Cuttings taken in late spring or summer can also be rooted in moist potting mix or water.
Division of established tubers in spring is another effective method.
Repot container-grown plants every 1-2 years in early spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Marvel Of Peru (Mirabilis jalapa)
Where Marvel Of Peru (Mirabilis jalapa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Mirabilis |
| Species | Mirabilis jalapa |
Similar in genus Mirabilis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
