Scientific name : Mirabilis jalpa

 Common name :  

  • 4 o'clock Plant
  • Marvel of Peru
  • Gulbhakshi

Propagation : By seeds & Bulbs


Native :  Peru

Description:
Herbaceous, perennial, tolerates a wide range of soil, 2/3 feet in height, bushy & Plant can have flowers of different colors. As the name implies the flowers are open up in the late afternoon then closes up again in the morning open. Flowers bloom for short span. This tuberous rooted plant produces opposites, slightly pointed oval leaves, multi-branching stems, plant love's sun, quick growing plant. It's 2 inch long flowers have 5 petals, trumpet shaped, Used for mixed border.

Uses : 

  • Antiseptic, purgative and diuretic properties having leaves are used for wound healing purpose to reduce inflammation & also it's flowers are used in food coloring. 
  • An edible crimson dye is obtained from flowers to colors cakes and jellies,

Fun facts :
  • Mirabilis means wonderful and Jalpa is the state capital of Veracruz in Mexico.
  • It's an unusual plant which produces flowers of different colors on the same plant which includes white, yellow & variety of pink,red and magenta color flowers. 
  • Hummingbird often attract to 4 o'clock flowers.