These old-fashioned favorites have a bright trumpet-shaped flower that is very distinctive. The plants got their name because they open in mid-afternoon. Its blooms will remain open overnight, and close in the early morning. Generally, the flowers will remain open on cloudy days as well. Four O'Clock flowers have a very nice, pleasant fragrance which can be quite strong at times. Native to tropical areas of North and South America they prefer warm climates. Four O'Clocks are actually perennials but are grown as annuals in most of the heavy frost areas. The bushy plants make an attractive hedge or border. Because the flowers are open during the evening, we recommend you place them in areas where people will see them in the early evening hours to get the most out of this Mirabilis Jalapa. Mirabilis Jalapa seeds may be sown directly into the garden in the spring in warm areas. In cooler areas with a late spring, start the flower seeds indoors about eight weeks before the final frost date for transplanting outdoors at a later time. Four O'Clock seedlings may be set in the garden at about the same time you would plant tomatoes.

SOWING:

Season: Annual

Sowing: March - April

Height: 45 cm (18 inch)

Blooms Time: Summer to Autumn

Environment: Full sun 

Germ temperature: 20 C 

Water: Medium

Depth: 1/4 inch (0.8 cm)Plant Spacing: 12 inches (30 cm)