Mirabilis longiflora

Sowing method: March-May, cover with a thin layer of soil. Optimal germination temperature 20̊ C. Cover the sown seeds with a (fleece) cloth to prevent drying out. After emergence, harden off in cool, light conditions.

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Sowing/planting time:

• March
• April
• May

Harvesting time:

• Not applicable / Not available

Soil type:

• All soil types

Cultivation location:

• Indoors
• Outdoors warm / sheltered

Position:

• Sun

• Flower colour: White with a purple heart
• Origin: South America
• Average growth height: 60 to 90 cm
• Annual or perennial: Annual
• Attractive to insects: Butterflies
• Winter hardy: Not frost hardy
• Ease of cultivation: Moderate

• Latin: Mirabilis longiflora
• Dutch: Nightshade
• Also known as: Not applicable / Not known
• English: Sweet Four O'Clock

My husband and I first came upon this cool “Four O’Clock” in Kauai and thought it was a tropical plant - especially after enjoying its distinctly sweet, exotic perfume. I was so pleased to discover it’s a native of the American Southwest, Mexico & Peru. Sadly rare in American gardens, “Angels Trumpets” grows to a 3’ tall mound and forms lotsa 4” long, flaring, tubular, white flowers from which emerge long, purple-magenta stamens. The flowers open at dusk and close around 10 a.m. A must for the fragrance garden! Like its more familiar cousin, Mirabilis jalapa or “Marvel of Peru”, “Angels Trumpets” makes a tuberous root which, in our coldest areas, can be dug up to preserve over the winter. (Source: www.anniesannuals.com)

• All year round