Description:
Mirabilis decipiens (Standl.) Standl. is a species of perennial plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is also known as Red four-o'clock or Desert four-o'clock.
Origin:
Mirabilis decipiens is native to the southwestern United States, including California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It can also be found in northern Mexico.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as Red four-o'clock and Desert four-o'clock due to its flowers which open late in the day, around 4 o'clock, and close early the following morning.
Uses:
Mirabilis decipiens is primarily used as an ornamental plant. It is often planted in hot, dry areas, such as deserts or xeric gardens. It is also used as a source of nectar for pollinators, such as bees and hummingbirds.
General Appearance:
The plant grows to a height between 1 and 3 feet and spreads to approximately 2 feet. It has thick, fleshy stems and dark green leaves that are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The flowers of the Red four-o'clock are trumpet-shaped, approximately 2 inches in length, and range in color from pink to red. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early fall.
Light Requirements
Mirabilis decipiens thrives in areas with full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower or grow as vigorously in reduced light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Mirabilis decipiens is native to Mexico and the southwestern US and adapts well to a range of temperatures. It prefers warmer temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and can tolerate temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) without issue. It can survive light frost, but prolonged freezing temperatures can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Mirabilis decipiens performs best in well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter. A neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH between 6.0-8.0 is ideal. Sandy or loamy soils that hold some moisture but allow excess water to drain away are suitable. The plant can tolerate some drought but requires regular watering during prolonged dry spells.
Cultivation Methods
Mirabilis decipiens is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid environments. The best method of cultivation involves planting it outside in well-draining soil in full sunlight or partial shade. Make sure to prepare the planting site by removing any weeds or debris, and amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or manure.
When planting, make sure that each seedling is spaced about 1-2 feet apart to allow for adequate growth. Additionally, the plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6 and 6.5. If your soil is alkaline, you may need to add sulfur or other amendments to reduce the pH level.
Watering Needs
Mirabilis decipiens requires moderate watering to thrive, especially during the growing season. Water the plants consistently, so that the top layer of soil doesn't dry out completely. During the dry season, you may need to water the plant more frequently.
Be careful not to overwater the plant, as root rot can occur in poorly drained soil. If the soil feels soggy or the plant's leaves begin to turn yellow, decrease the amount of water you're giving.
Fertilization
It's a good practice to fertilize your Mirabilis decipiens once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, or a slow-release fertilizer with a similar ratio.
Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and poor flowering. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and adjust the amount based on the size and age of your plant.
Pruning
Mirabilis decipiens is a relatively low maintenance plant, and pruning isn't typically necessary. However, it's recommended to remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they're noticed.
If you want to control the plant's size or shape, prune in the fall or early winter. Cut back any overgrown branches by about one-third of their length, being careful not to remove too much of the plant's foliage.
Additionally, you can deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage more blooms. Cut the spent flowers just below the flower head using a clean pair of shears or scissors.
Propagation of Mirabilis decipiens (Standl.) Standl.
Mirabilis decipiens (Standl.) Standl., commonly known as "deceptive four o'clock," is a species of flowering plant in the Nyctaginaceae family. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in dry to moist areas with well-drained soils. Propagation of this species can be done using various methods, including seed propagation, stem cutting, and division.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Mirabilis decipiens is through seed. The seeds can be harvested from dry seed capsules or purchased from a reliable seed supplier. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist until germination. Germination occurs within 7 to 14 days, and the seedlings should be thinned out once they grow their first leaves. Seed propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.
Propagation by Stem Cutting
Propagation of Mirabilis decipiens can also be done using stem cuttings. This method is best done in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems that have not yet flowered. Cuttings should be 4- to 6-inches long and should be taken from the tip of the stem. Remove the lower leaves and dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist until roots form. Rooting usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another method of propagating Mirabilis decipiens. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good root system. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water well.
By using these propagation methods, gardeners and plant enthusiasts can easily expand their collection of Mirabilis decipiens and enjoy the beauty of its unique flowers.
Disease and Pest Management of Mirabilis decipiens (Standl.) Standl.
Mirabilis decipiens (Standl.) Standl. is relatively resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are still some that may affect the plant.
Common Diseases Affecting Mirabilis decipiens
One of the most common diseases affecting Mirabilis decipiens is Anthracnose, which is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It can cause severe damage to the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove any infected parts of the plant and apply fungicides to prevent its spread.
Another disease that may affect Mirabilis decipiens is the Powdery Mildew, which is caused by fungi such as Erysiphe cichoracearum and Leveillula taurica. It causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, making them turn yellow and dropping prematurely. To manage this disease, it is advisable to increase air circulation and apply fungicides.
Common Pests Affecting Mirabilis decipiens
One of the most common pests that attack Mirabilis decipiens is the leafhopper, which causes stippling on the leaves. This pest can be managed by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or by using insecticides.
Another pest that may affect Mirabilis decipiens is the Spider Mite, which can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, it is advisable to increase humidity levels and apply insecticides.
Overall, it is important to maintain good cultural practices like adequate watering and fertilization to help maintain a healthy plant and prevent disease and pest infestations.
