Froebel’s four-o’clock (Mirabilis multiflora, W.H.Emory, Rep. U.S. Mex. Bound. 2(1): 173 (1858))

Family: Nyctaginaceae

Author: (Torr.) A.Gray

Bibliography: W.H.Emory, Rep. U.S. Mex. Bound. 2(1): 173 (1858)

Year: 1858

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Mirabilis

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Utah to NE. Mexico

Description

Froebel’s four-o’clock, scientifically known as Mirabilis multiflora, is an intriguing and striking plant belonging to the family Nyctaginaceae. This perennial herbaceous plant captures attention with its vibrant, deeply hued flowers, typically blooming in the late afternoon—true to its common name, which references its evening blooming pattern.

Native to regions stretching from southeastern Utah to northeastern Mexico, Froebel’s four-o’clock thrives in the arid and semiarid climates characteristic of these locales. The plant is well adapted to survive in harsh conditions, displaying drought resistance and the ability to flourish in rocky, well-drained soils commonly found in these areas.

The plant’s growth habit is sprawling, with stems extending outward to create a spreading, ground-covering effect. The leaves are notable for their broad, ovate shape with a slightly fleshy texture, a common trait within the Nyctaginaceae family, aiding in water retention during dry spells.

The most distinguishing feature of Mirabilis multiflora is its large, funnel-shaped flowers which range in color from vibrant magenta to deep purple. These blossoms open in the late afternoon and remain open through the night, closing again by midday. This distinctive blooming pattern attracts a variety of nocturnal pollinators, including moths and certain bee species, ensuring effective pollination under the cover of darkness.

Historically documented by W.H. Emory in his Report on the United States and Mexican Boundary Survey conducted in 1858, Froebel’s four-o’clock was later assigned its current scientific nomenclature by the botanist Asa Gray, reflecting the ongoing interest and study of this species since its early discovery.

In addition to its ornamental appeal, Mirabilis multiflora is noted for its potential medicinal properties and uses by indigenous cultures within its native range. The roots and aerial parts of the plant have been used in traditional remedies, showcasing the plant’s multifaceted value beyond its aesthetic charm.

Overall, Froebel’s four-o’clock stands out not only for its resplendent evening blooms but also for its resilience and adaptability in diverse and demanding environments. It remains a cherished species in botanical gardens and among plant enthusiasts who appreciate its unique ecological and cultural significance.

Common Names

Eng: colorado four o’clock, colorado four-o’clock, froebel’s four-o’clock, manyflowered four-o’clock
En: Froebel’s four-o’clock, Colorado four-o’clock, Colorado four o’clock, Manyflowered four-o’clock

Synonyms

• Quamoclidion multiflorum ((Torr.) A.Gray)
• Oxybaphus multiflorus (Torr.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Aug 14, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 9, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 2, 2013 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 15, 2022 by S (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 26, 2019 by Christine chabq (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 15, 2022 by S (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 26, 2019 by Christine chabq (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 25, 2022 by Natalie Clement (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 2, 2022 by Pao Wright (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Yang Chen (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 14, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 20, 2013 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 22, 2010 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 20, 2014 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 2, 2013 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 2, 2013 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3086166)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1172078-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) A. Gray)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Crown

Growth habit>: Forb/herb, Subshrub

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.5

Ph minimum: 6.5