Desert Four O'Clock

Description

Mirabilis multiflora (Desert four O'clock)This large plant is a Utah native and spreads horizontally from a single tap root. Stays low to the grounds at only 2 feet tall but has an impressive span up to 8 feet wide. Give this plant room to reach its full width so it does not crowd out any of your other plants. Lush green leaves and attractive magenta blooms from mid-summer until frost. Very low water to establish and drought tolerant there after, easy fall cleanup.

Evidence of prehistoric use of Mirabilis plants has been found at the ancient Fresnel Shelter site near the San Pedro mountains to the east, indicating that this plant has a long history of human use in the region. The taproot and other parts of the plant have been ground into medicine and used by the people of nearly all the modern Pueblos, with a variety of uses, including ceremonial use of the taproot. In addition, the flowers can be used to make dyes of purple and light brown shades.