Overview
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is also known as desert four o'clock. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family.
Origin
The plant is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern parts of the United States and Mexico.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as desert four o'clock, Colorado four o'clock, and hoary desert four o'clock.
General Appearance
The plant has a sprawling growth habit, and its stems can grow up to 40 inches long. The leaves are simple, ovate or lanceolate-shaped, and measure roughly one to four inches long. They are arranged alternately along the stem and are covered in fine hairs. The plant blooms during the summer months, and its flowers are typically pink, magenta, or lavender in color. The flowers are tubular-shaped and have five petals that are fused together. The plant produces a fruit that is a small, dry, and round seed capsule.
Uses
In many Native American tribes, the roots of the plant were used to treat a variety of ailments such as toothaches, coughs, and fever. The Navajo tribe used the plant in religious ceremonies. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and is often used in xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Light Requirements
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa prefers full sunlight, meaning that it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with hot summers, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is often found in arid or semiarid regions and can tolerate extreme temperatures. It can survive in a range of temperatures from 20 to 40°C (68 - 104°F) during the growing season. However, it is not frost tolerant and may suffer damage at temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
Soil Requirements
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa prefers well-drained, sandy soils with a slightly alkaline pH between 7.0 - 8.5. It can tolerate some drought but not waterlogged conditions. This plant grows well in areas with low rainfall and high evaporation rates. In areas with heavy soil, adding organic materials like compost or well-rotted manure can improve drainage and promote better growth.
Cultivation Methods
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a hardy perennial plant that can grow well in many different soil types. When planting, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the location receives full sun. It's best to plant in the spring, after the last frost has passed.
Prepare the soil by working in compost or other organic matter before planting. Plant the seedlings 12-18 inches apart, and water them well. Once the plants are established, they require minimal care.
Watering Needs
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a drought-tolerant plant and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during hot, dry weather. In cooler weather or during periods of rain, the plant may not need additional watering. Ensure that the soil doesn't become waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. doesn't require regular fertilization if grown in nutrient-rich soil or soil that has been amended with compost. However, if the plant isn't growing as well as desired, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers.
Pruning
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. doesn't require regular pruning. However, if the plant begins to look leggy or unkempt, it can be pruned back after it has finished blooming in the fall. Avoid pruning the plant back too heavily, as this can reduce future bloom production.
Propagation of Mirabilis Multiflora Var. Glandulosa
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray var. glandulosa (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant is an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes due to its colorful flowers, and it can be propagated using several methods.
Seed Propagation
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa can be propagated by seeds. Seeds can be collected, cleaned, and sown in a potting mix that is kept consistently moist. The seeds should be sown in the spring, as they require warm soil temperatures to germinate. Germination typically occurs in one to two weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have grown two to three true leaves. The seedlings can then be hardened off and planted in their final location in the garden.
Division
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate using division, the plant is dug up, and the root ball is divided into smaller sections. Each section should have several healthy roots and shoots. The sections can then be replanted in the garden or potted up and kept in a protected area until they have recovered.
Cuttings
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa can also be propagated using cuttings. This method is best done in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and should be 4-6 inches long. The bottom of the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location until they have rooted. Once rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then planted outside.
Disease Management
Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa is susceptible to various diseases that might affect its growth and development. The following are some common diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
The plant may be affected by leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, and grayish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it's essential to be vigilant during the planting season and remove all infected leaves and plant debris. Apply fungicides at regular intervals to prevent the spread of the fungus. Also, ensure that the plant gets adequate sunlight and air circulation to keep it dry, reducing the chances of infection.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the stems, leading to plant death. To manage this disease, avoid planting the plant in poorly drained soils, remove any plant debris, and apply fungicides regularly.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus is a viral disease that causes mottled, distorted leaves in the plant. The disease is highly infectious and is spread by pests. To manage the disease, remove all infected plants and avoid planting them in a well-ventilated area.
Pest Management
Various pests can affect Mirabilis multiflora var. glandulosa, leading to loss of yield and plant death. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are small pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, apply insecticides that are effective against them, such as neem oil or insecticidal soaps. Provide adequate moisture to the plant to reduce stress, which makes the plant more resistant to pest attack.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and die. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them physically. Alternatively, use insecticides, such as pyrethroids, to manage the pest.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that cut the stem at soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, use insecticides, such as chlorantraniliprole or spinosad, during planting to kill the pests before they can cause damage. Alternatively, place a collar around the plant's base to keep the cutworm from reaching the stem.
