Overview
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz, also known as Bigelow's four o'clock or Mojave four o'clock, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae. It is native to the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, located in southeastern California, southwestern Nevada, and northwestern Arizona.
Description
The Bigelow's four o'clock plant typically grows up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. It has reddish-brown stems that are covered in tiny hairs. The thick leaves of the plant are fleshy and usually grow up to 2-4 inches long. The flowers of the plant are trumpet-shaped, measuring about 1 inch long and have pink to lavender-colored petals. The plant blooms from May to October, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Uses
The plant's roots and leaves have some medicinal properties that are used in traditional medicines. The decoction of the plant is used to treat various ailments like diarrhea, cough, and fever. Some Native American tribes also use the plant in religious rituals and ceremonies. The plant is also valued for its ornamental uses and is commonly used in rock gardens or as a ground cover.
Light Requirements
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz thrives in bright light conditions. It can grow well in direct sunlight as well as in partial shade. However, if the plant is placed in a shady spot for a prolonged period, it can lead to poor growth or even death.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20-32°C (68-90°F). It can survive temperatures as low as -1°C (30°F) during the winter season. However, if the temperature drops below this threshold, it can cause damage to the plant's foliage.
Soil Requirements
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz require well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. It can survive in adverse soil conditions but not for long periods. Sandy or loamy soil with good drainage and moderate organic matter is ideal for the plant. The soil must have an adequate amount of moisture to support its growth.
Cultivation Methods
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz is a hardy plant that can thrive in dry, hot environments. It is native to the southwestern United States and can be grown in arid regions. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can adapt to various soil types.
If you are growing the plant from seeds, it is recommended to sow them directly in the ground, preferably in the spring when the soil has warmed up. The seeds should be placed about two inches apart and a quarter of an inch deep in the soil. You can also propagate the plant from cuttings, which should be taken in summer when the plant is actively growing.
Watering Needs
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. However, when the plant is young and establishing itself, it will need more water. Once the plant has matured, it can survive on natural rainfall alone. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
If you live in an extremely arid region, you may need to water the plant more often than usual to prevent dehydration. Also, during extended dry periods, provide a good soak to replenish the plant's moisture reserves.
Fertilization
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz does not require nutrient-rich soil, and fertilization may not be necessary. However, if you notice slow growth or poor plant health, you can apply a light application of a balanced fertilizer once the plant has established itself.
Use a slow-release fertilizer and apply it during the plant's active growing period. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive nitrogen levels that promote leaf growth but reduce flowering.
Pruning
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa (Heller) Munz is a maintenance-free plant and does not require pruning. However, if you want to control the plant's size and shape or promote bushier growth, you can prune the plant in late winter or early spring.
Prune the plant to remove dead or damaged branches and shape it according to your preference. Don't prune more than a third of the plant at once, as it can cause stress and affect flowering.
Propagation of Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa, commonly known as Bigelow's desert four-o'clock, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to the deserts of southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a popular plant in xeriscaping due to its drought-resistant nature and attractive flowers.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa is through its seeds. The seeds are readily available and can be purchased from seed suppliers. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or early summer when the soil temperature is warm enough to promote germination.
The seeds should be sown directly into the soil, as transplanting can cause root disturbance. The seeds should be sown shallowly, no more than 1/4 inch deep, and spaced about 6 to 12 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out to a distance of about 2 to 3 feet apart to allow them to spread out.
Root Division
Another method of propagating Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa is through root division. This method is best done in the fall or early spring, when the plant is not actively growing. To propagate through root division, gently dig up the plant and use a sharp knife or shears to cut the root system into smaller sections. The sections should each have several healthy shoots and roots. Replant each section into a new location, making sure to water the soil well.
Root division can also be done when the plant has become too large and needs to be divided for better growth. This can be done every few years.
Cutting Propagation
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa can also be propagated through cuttings, although this method is less common and may require more patience. To propagate through cuttings, take a softwood cutting from the parent plant in the early summer. The cutting should be several inches long and have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and stick the cutting into moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a brightly lit, warm location. The cutting should root in a few weeks.
Propagation through cuttings is not as reliable as seed propagation or root division, but it can be a useful method for plant enthusiasts who want to expand their collection or experiment with different propagation techniques.
Disease Management
Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa is a fairly hardy plant, but there are several diseases that can affect it, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew can cause a fuzzy white or gray powder to develop on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Proper watering, good air circulation, and removing affected leaves can help prevent the spread of powdery mildew. In severe cases, fungicides can be used to manage powdery mildew.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot presents itself as spots on the leaves and can be caused by various fungal pathogens. To prevent leaf spot, it is important to provide the plant with good air circulation and to avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. In cases of severe leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed or fungicides applied.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, it is crucial to avoid overwatering and to have well-draining soil. If signs of root rot present themselves (wilting leaves, yellowing foliage), the plant should be removed from the soil, the roots washed, and the plant replanted in fresh soil.
Pest Management
While Mirabilis bigelovii Gray var. retrorsa is generally not too susceptible to pests, there are a few pests that can cause damage, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plants. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and distorted or curled foliage. Insecticidal sprays or soaps can be used to manage aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause tiny white or yellow stipplings on leaves. They can also cause webbing to appear on the plant. Regularly washing the foliage can help prevent spider mites. In severe cases, miticides can be used to manage spider mites.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that can cause yellowing and stunted growth. They release a sticky substance that can lead to the growth of sooty mold. Yellow sticky traps or insecticides can be used to manage whiteflies.
