How to Care for Mirabilis jalapa (Four o'clock flower)

Korean name: 분꽃

The four o'clock flower is a perennial herbaceous plant with heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers in various vibrant colors. It commonly grows as a wildflower and thrives in warm environments. It is relatively easy to care for, requiring moderate water and light.

Key facts

• Category: Wildflower & native plant
• Difficulty: Easy
• Where to keep: outdoors
• Native to: South America
• Growth rate: Moderate
• Pets: Toxic, so keep it well away from pets and children.
• Flower meaning: comfort, joy
• Traits: wildflower, perennial, herbaceous, colorful flowers, partial shade
• Also known as: Four o'clock flower, Marvel of Peru

Care Guide

• Light: Prefers partial shade, avoiding direct sunlight.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is ideal.
• Humidity: Tolerant of typical indoor humidity.
• Temperature: 18~27°C
• Fertilizer: Apply diluted liquid fertilizer twice a month during the growing season.

Common questions

How often should you water Mirabilis jalapa?

Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Mirabilis jalapa?

It likes Prefers partial shade, avoiding direct sunlight.. You can grow it outdoors. Use Well-draining soil is ideal..

Is Mirabilis jalapa safe around pets?

Toxic, so keep it well away from pets and children.

Is Mirabilis jalapa good for beginners?

Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Keep it around 18~27°C. Humidity: Tolerant of typical indoor humidity.. Fertilise Apply diluted liquid fertilizer twice a month during the growing season..