perennial

Four O'Clock

Mirabilis jalapa 'Baywatch'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender Perennial

Native To

Tropical America

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Mirabilis jalapa, commonly known as Four O'Clock, is a tender perennial or annual with bushy growth, featuring vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the late afternoon and come in various colors, often with variegated foliage. The 'Baywatch' cultivar is distinguished by its striking, bicolored flowers of fuchsia-pink and bright yellow, which can appear as solids or mixed on the same plant. It has a robust, compact habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, fragrant flowers add vibrant color and scent to gardens.

Night-blooming habit attracts pollinators, aiding garden ecology.

Supports pollinator populations and enhances biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in spring
Keep soil consistently moist for best germination
Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
Water regularly during dry spells
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during blooming season

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant
Propagate

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with fragrant flowersVining plant on trellisesWildflower garden accent

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Salvia Lantana Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Four O'Clock questions

What zones can Four O'Clock grow in?

Four O'Clock is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Four O'Clock deer resistant?

Yes — Four O'Clock is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Four O'Clock bloom?

Four O'Clock typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Four O'Clock need full sun?

Four O'Clock does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Four O'Clock drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Four O'Clock handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.