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Four O'Clock 'Fairy Trumpets'
Four O'Clock 'Fairy Trumpets'
Seed Packet

Four O'Clock 'Fairy Trumpets'

Mirabilis longiflora
Jefferson received this seed from its native southwest and grew it at Monticello—perhaps he was as captivated by it as we are. Outrageous curvy pink stamens dotted at the tips with orange pollen reach out a good 2" from the magenta-throated white trumpets. A sweet orange blossom scent draws nighttime visitors, human and invertebrate alike! Grow in moonlit gardens or in pots placed on the patio.
SKU #S667
Caution: Poisonous. The purchaser assumes all liability related to the use of this product.
$3.50
Growing Companions
Moon Garden Seed Collection
Moon Garden Seed Collection
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
21
Lifecycle
Annual; tender perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
8,
9,
10
Annual Hardiness
Tender Annual
Mature Size
1.5-2.5' h x 2' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
White with raspberry centers and long curving stamens
Features
Great for containers
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/4-1/2"
Sprout Time:
5-30 days
Seed To Bloom:
12 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Start in pots 6-8 weeks before last spring frost. Keep at 70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Recommended. Direct sow 1 week after last spring frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
In springtime, after all danger of frost has passed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Marvel of Peru they were called by early herbalists, who raved about this "Marvel of the World" for its various bright flower colors intermingled on the same plant. They grow rapidly from their football-shaped dark seeds and soon branch into a small shrub studded with masses of sweetly scented flowers combining the perfumes of floral rose and citrus that wait until dusk to open. Heat, humidity, and drought tolerant once fully established, they also attract hummingbirds. Once fall arrives or under cloudy skies, they often stay open during the daylight hours. If you want to overwinter the tuberous roots, dig up in autumn after frost and store them in a reasonably dry medium in a cool, dry, frost-free location, such as a garage or basement. Caution: mildly toxic roots and seeds.
Final Spacing:
1-2'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Drought tolerant where perennial due to large tuberose roots. 1" of water per week elsewhere, as regular watering will promote more flowering.
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix in a time release organic granular fertilizer; alternatively, feed monthly with a water soluble fertilizer.
Diseases & Pests:
No serious diseases or pests; if aphids appear on young plants, hose down or mist daily until the insects disappear.