Four O’Clock

The Four O’Clock flower, or Mirabilis jalapa, is known for blooming in the evening and releasing a sweet fragrance. Its name comes from the white powder found inside its seeds, reminiscent of traditional Japanese face powder (oshiroi). Easy to grow and commonly seen in gardens, this flower has been cherished in Japan for generations.

In this article, I will explore the basic information about the Four O’Clock flower, its cultural background, and gardening tips.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Mirabilis jalapa
• Family: Nyctaginaceae
• Origin: Central and South America (mainly the Andes region of Peru)
• Appearance: The Four O’Clock flower grows to about 1 meter in height, producing vibrant flowers in red, pink, yellow, white, or mixed colors. The flowers open in the evening and close by morning. Its seeds are black and hard, containing a white powdery substance inside.
• Blooming season: From summer to autumn (June to October), it blooms continuously, making it perfect for summer evenings.

Cultural Significance Around the World

In its native region of Central and South America, the Four O’Clock flower is often called the “Miracle Flower” and has been admired for its vibrant colors, commonly planted in gardens and public parks. In Peru, the flower is deeply integrated into local life, celebrated for its beauty.

In Japan, the Four O’Clock flower was introduced during the Edo period and became a common sight in home gardens and schoolyards. Children often use the seeds to play, making the plant a part of fond summer memories. The name “Oshiroi-bana” refers to the powder found in the seeds, reminiscent of traditional face powder. The flower’s blooming at dusk also gives it a poetic association with the evening and the coming of night, adding to its cultural charm.

Historical Episodes

The Four O’Clock flower was brought to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers, who admired its beauty and spread it across the continent. It quickly became popular in European gardens as an exotic plant from the New World. From there, it spread to Asia and other parts of the world, where it continued to be valued for its ornamental appeal.

In Japan, the flower gained attention during the Edo period, when its unique seeds and blooming pattern fascinated people. At a time when foreign plants were still a novelty, the Four O’Clock flower sparked curiosity and became widely cultivated. Its evening bloom made it a favorite for summer enjoyment, and it gradually became a familiar part of Japanese summer traditions.

Gardening Advice

The Four O’Clock flower is easy to grow and highly resilient, making it ideal for beginner gardeners. It thrives in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The seeds are easy to germinate and have a high success rate, allowing for yearly enjoyment of the vibrant blooms.

Watering should be done generously when the topsoil dries out, but avoid overwatering. The soil should be well-drained and fertile, and adding compost or organic matter is beneficial. During the summer, watering in the morning or evening will keep the plant healthy and blooming.

When planting in the ground, be mindful of the plant’s spreading habit and ensure there is ample space, or avoid planting it near competing plants. As the Four O’Clock flower is sensitive to cold, collecting seeds in the fall and replanting them the following year is recommended.

Conclusion

The Four O’Clock flower brings vibrant colors and a unique blooming pattern to summer gardens. Its easy cultivation makes it perfect for gardeners of all levels, adding a burst of color to any space. Consider planting the Four O’Clock flower in your garden to enjoy the beauty of its evening blooms.