Growing Non-GMO Marvel of Peru Flower Seeds
Marvel of Peru's four o'clock seeds can be broadcasted directly or sown traditionally after the frost but, for earliest blooms, begin indoors 6-8 weeks prior. Germination will take 7-14 days in full lighting and harden off to a partially shaded place in the garden. Plants can be uprooted and stored over overwinter in a moist medium in a garage or basement for next spring, yielding bigger and brighter blooms from the established roots. Marvel of Peru's four o'clock flowers tolerate a wide range of soils and are known to be especially tolerant of dry and sandy soils. Marvel of Peru grows potato-like tuberous roots that can be overwintered like dahlias. Roots can be uprooted in the fall and stored over the winter for more robust spring blooming. Cut the foliage back before uprooting the tubers.
This gorgeous plant can be a woody perennial in frost-free climates providing beauty year after year, or it can be grown as an annual in more temperate regions. The plant is killed when temperatures get below freezing. When growing as a perennial, move a layer of mulch over the winter to protect the roots. Propagate by seeds or division of the tubers in the spring.
Marvel of Peru in the Flower Garden
Any fragrance-centered flower garden would be incomplete without a Marvel of Peru specimen! These highly tolerant plants provide a perfect background, hedge, screen, or border. They even work well in annual or perennial flower beds. Four O’Clocks are tolerant to deer, rabbits, and wet soil. Marvel of Peru flowers is also ideal for a moon or night garden because they are always open at night time and close in the morning until late afternoon.
Landscaping with Marvel of Peru
Landscapes in warm, coastal locations are the perfect candidates for this beautiful plant. Try incorporating it into Informal, Mediterranean, or cottage-themed gardens in these areas- it will thrive!
About Marvel of Peru Garden Seeds
Mirabilis jalapa, more typically known as the Four O’Clock Plant, is native to Peru and its warm coastal climate and was first introduced to Europe in 1525. The four o’clock earns its name because it opens every day around 4:00 pm and emits a sweet and fragrant nectar that remains available until morning when the bloom will close and wait until 4:00 again.
No one is exactly sure why the blooms operate on a schedule but most scientists agree that it has something to do with the types or species of pollinators that it favors. It opens its flowers during times of day when those pollinators are more likely to be active.
Marvel of Peru and Four O’Clock Flower can also be known as False Jalap, Garden Jalap, Jalap Plant, Marvel of the World, Pearl of Egypt, and Japanese Wonder Flower.
Marvel of Peru is rarely invasive but should be monitored. It is considered invasive in Hawaii.
