Four-O-Clocks
Heirloom Four O'clocks: The Enchanting Evening Glow of the Garden
Four O'clocks (Mirabilis jalapa) are the undisputed magicians of the heirloom border. Named for their unique internal clock, these flowers remain closed during the bright midday sun, only unfurling their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blossoms in the late afternoon to fill the air with an intoxicating, sweet perfume. At Firefly Farm & Mercantile, we curate Four O'clock seeds selected for their intense color ranges—often featuring multiple hues on a single plant—and their robust, shrub-like growth habit. Acclimated to the warm, humid nights of the Driftless Region, these non-GMO annuals provide a sophisticated sensory experience that defines the twilight hours.
A Haven for Hummingbirds and Nocturnal Moths
The secret to a "living" evening garden often begins with Four O'clocks. Their deep, nectar-rich throats are a primary magnet for hummingbirds in the late afternoon and the spectacular Sphinx (Hawk) moths after dusk. Because they grow into dense, mounded forms up to three feet tall, they act as a "living hedge" that provides both structure and a relentless canopy of color. Whether you are designing a dedicated Moon Garden or simply want a fragrant welcome when you return home from work, our seeds provide a high-vigor foundation for a resilient, buzzing sanctuary.
Quick Four O'clock Growing Facts:
- Planting Window: Direct sow after all danger of frost has passed and soil is warm (65°F+). The large, "hand-grenade" shaped seeds are easy to handle and germinate rapidly.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. In very hot areas, they actually appreciate afternoon shade to keep their foliage lush.
- Hardiness: Grown as a tender annual in USDA Zones 3-7; perennial in Zones 8-11.
- Drought Tolerance: High. Once established, their thick roots store water, making them remarkably resilient during Midwest dry spells.
- Expert Tip (The Tuber Secret): Did you know Four O'clocks grow large, carrot-like tubers? In the Driftless Region, you can actually dig these tubers up in the fall (just like Dahlias), store them in a cool basement over winter, and replant them in the spring for a massive, "instant" shrub-sized plant the following year!
Explore our selection of traditional, broken-color, and neon heirloom Four O'clock seeds below. Every packet includes expert instructions to help you grow a fragrant, evening-blooming masterpiece in your home garden.
