mirabilis jalapa marvel of peru - GARDEN
Mirabilis is a genus of plants in the family Nyctaginaceae known as the four-o'clocks or umbrellaworts. [2] The best known species may be Mirabilis jalapa, the plant most commonly called four o'clock. Four o'clock plants (Mirabilis jalapa) are fragrant flowers that start blooming in the late afternoon.
Understanding the Context
Learn how to care for these plants. Mirabilis, a member of the Nyctaginaceae family, is a genus of flowering plants known for its distinctive blooming pattern. Its name, “Mirabilis,” which means “wonderful” or “marvelous,” perfectly encapsulates the allure of this flower. And while you may recall the rather old-fashioned four o’clock (Mirabilis jalapa) from visits to Grandma’s house, the name of the plant isn’t a reflection of when our older relatives often tend to eat dinner.
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Key Insights
Instead, the name indicates the time of day when the plant’s trumpet-shaped flowers open.