Arizona Wild Flowers
Wildflower Pictures And Photos

Colorado Four O' Clock , Mirabilis multiflora

Colorado Four O' Clock , Mirabilis multiflora At Yarnell, Arizona. September 30, 2006.

Desert Four O' Clock Mirabilis multiflora	Showy Four O' Clock Mirabilis multiflora

Colorado Four O' Clock Mirabilis multiflora, Four O'Clock Family ( Nyctaginaceae ), Colorado Four O' Clock. Also called: Desert Four O' Clock, Maravilla, Showy Four O' Clock. Mirabilis multiflora is a perennial dicot growing to 3 - 4 feet wide and about 12 - 24 inches high. It is hardy to zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July - October at 4,800 feet elevation. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs). The plant will grow in almost any well-drained soil. The plant is not particular as to soil pH. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil. The photos on this page are of a plant under the shade of a shrub. Height: A herb, about 12 - 24 inches high. Flowers: Funnel - shaped, purple - magenta, petal - like calyx, no true petals, up to about 1 inch wide. Usually in groups of 3 to 6 bell shaped cups in the leaf axils.. Blooming Time: April - Mid October. Leaves: The leaves are smooth - edged, oval to heart - shaped, up to about 4 inches long. They bloom and wither the next morning. Found: Found along roadsides, sandy areas, and mesa. Elevation: 2,500 to 6,500 Feet. Habitat: Well drained soil is preferred. Native to USA. Miscellaneous: Flowering Photos Taken At Yarnell, Arizona. September 30, 2006.