General Description
Mirabilis coccinea (Torr.) Benth. & Hook. f., also known as Scarlet Four O'Clock, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. Its common name is derived from its ability to bloom every afternoon around four o'clock, emitting a pleasant aroma.
Origin
The plant is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, but it has been introduced in different parts of the world, including the US, where it is well suited to grow in warm climates.
Appearance
The Scarlet Four O'Clock can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has smooth stems with lance-shaped leaves that are green in color, and it produces bright red flowers that measure about an inch long. The plant's blooms are trumpet-shaped, and they open in the late afternoon, remaining open until the next morning.
Uses
Aside from its ornamental value, Mirabilis coccinea has some medicinal properties. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, making it useful in treating wounds. The plant's roots can be used to make a tea that can help with fever, constipation, and rheumatism. In addition, the plant is also a source of food for hummingbirds and butterflies.
Growth Conditions of Mirabilis coccinea
Mirabilis coccinea, commonly known as red four o'clock or scarlet ugly, is a flowering plant native to Mexico. This plant species is popularly grown as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers and ease of maintenance. To grow healthy and vigorous Mirabilis coccinea, certain growth conditions must be met.
Light
Mirabilis coccinea requires full sun exposure to grow and bloom to its full potential. This plant can tolerate partial shade but is sure to flower less. Thus, to ensure optimal growth and bud formations, it is best to choose a planting site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature
Mirabilis coccinea is a tropical plant species, and it thrives best in warm environments with temperatures ranging from 20 to 27°C (68-81°F). This plant species is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures, and colder climates can cause its leaves to drop. Therefore, it is best to avoid planting Mirabilis coccinea in areas prone to frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil
Mirabilis coccinea thrives in well-draining soils that are organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral in pH, and deep. The ideal soil should be loamy, and the addition of peat moss or compost can provide the needed organic matter. Additionally, the soil's moisture level should be moderate to slightly moist, and it should not be allowed to dry out completely as it can affect this plant's growth and flowering.
Watering
Like most flowering plants, Mirabilis coccinea requires regular watering to maintain optimal growth. It is best to water this species regularly, especially during the hot summer months. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. The soil should be moist but not saturated, and it should be allowed to dry slightly before re-watering.
Fertilizer
To ensure optimal growth, Mirabilis coccinea requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Opt for a slow-release formulation applied in early spring, providing nutrients slowly over time. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as this may lead to excessive vegetative growth instead of flowering.
Cultivation
Mirabilis coccinea is a tender perennial plant that is usually grown as an annual. It is a low maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a wide range of conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for growth is between 6.0 to 7.5.
The plant does well in containers or as a bedding plant. It should be planted in late spring or early summer after the danger of frost has passed. The plants should be spaced about 12–18 inches apart to allow enough room for growth.
Watering
Watering needs for Mirabilis coccinea are moderate. The plant should be watered deeply, but infrequently. The soil should be allowed to dry out partially before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
During hot summers, the plant will require more frequent watering. The leaves might become wilted during the day but recover at night.
Fertilization
Mirabilis coccinea is not a heavy feeder, and too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers. A general-purpose fertilizer can be used every two to three weeks to promote growth, but it is not necessary.
Overfertilizing may also attract pests such as spider mites and aphids.
Pruning
Mirabilis coccinea does not require regular pruning, but it benefits from occasional deadheading. Deadheading will promote the growth of new blooms and keep the plant tidy.
It is also essential to remove any dead or diseased stems and leaves as soon as possible. Pruning should take place in the spring or fall after the flowering season has ended.
Propagation of Mirabilis coccinea
Mirabilis coccinea, also known as the four o'clock plant, can be propagated through several methods. These methods include seed propagation, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method for propagating four o'clock plants. The seeds should be sown in the spring or early summer when the temperature is above 70°F (21°C) and the soil is warm. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch (6 mm) in well-draining soil. They should be kept moist and should germinate in 7-14 days. As the plants grow, they should be thinned to 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) apart.
Stem Cuttings
Four o'clock plants can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The stems should be cut from mature plants in the late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from new shoots that are approximately 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) long. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist and should root within 2-3 weeks.
Root Cuttings
Four o'clock plants can also be propagated through root cuttings. Roots should be dug up in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be taken from roots that are approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) in diameter and 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. The cuttings should root within 2-3 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Mirabilis coccinea (Torr.) Benth. & Hook. f.
Mirabilis coccinea (Torr.) Benth. & Hook. f., commonly known as the four o'clock plant, is a resilient species that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. However, it may still fall prey to some common pests and diseases.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Mirabilis coccinea is leaf spot. It is caused by the fungus Cercospora nicotianae and is characterized by brown spots on the leaves with yellow halos. To prevent and manage leaf spot, it is important to remove and destroy infected leaves as soon as they appear. Additionally, maintaining proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can also help in preventing this disease.
Another common fungal infection affecting Mirabilis coccinea is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as white, powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, prune away any infected parts of the plant and make sure to provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation. Fungicide treatments can also be applied, but it is important to read the label instructions and follow them carefully.
Common Pests
Mirabilis coccinea may also attract a few pests, such as spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause leaves to yellow and develop a stippled appearance. To manage spider mites, try spraying the plant with water to knock them off, or use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Aphids, on the other hand, are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, make sure to regularly check the plants and remove any aphids manually. Alternatively, environmentally friendly insecticides can also be used.
It is always important to monitor plants regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection can prevent the spread of disease and the severity of damage. Taking preventative measures such as proper sanitation, plant spacing, and following recommended cultural practices are also essential in keeping plants healthy and disease-free.
