Planting Four O'Clocks Seeds

Four O'Clocks Mixed plants
Planting Guides > Planting Four O'Clocks Seeds
Photograph of Four O'Clocks plants
Four O'Clocks — plant photograph

Fast Facts

Planting SeasonAfter cold weather has passed
Water NeedsWater during establishment; adjust to local conditions
Light RequirementFull sun
Botanical NameMirabilis jalapa
Life CycleTender perennial; often grown as annual
Bloom SeasonSummer through fall

About Four O'Clocks

Four o'clocks open their trumpet-shaped flowers in late afternoon and evening, bringing mixed color to warm-season beds. Plant after cold weather passes and leave space for the leafy plants to branch out.

When to Plant Four O'Clocks Seeds

Sow after frost once soil is warm. Seeds may also be started indoors a few weeks earlier if space is available.

Where to Plant Four O'Clocks Seeds

Give full sun to part sun and well-drained soil. Leave room for a bushy mature plant.

How to Plant Four O'Clocks Seeds

Check the packet for any recommended soaking of the large seeds.

Sow at the packet depth in moist soil and keep the bed evenly damp until emergence.

Thin plants to the final spacing as they develop.

How to Enjoy Four O'Clocks

Four O’Clocks are typically enjoyed in place; the flowers open later in the day and often close by morning. Remove unwanted seed pods if self-sowing is a concern.

How to Care for Four O'Clocks

Water during establishment and prolonged drought. Flowers commonly open later in the day; remove unwanted seedlings if plants self-sow in your climate.

Companion Plants

Use near moonflower for an evening garden, with separate support for the vine.

Growing details can vary by seed lot and climate. Climate affects whether plants return or self-sow; avoid assuming perennial performance everywhere. University extension gardening resources