The Mirabilis jalapa is called the 4 o'clock plant because its flowers typically open late in the day.
Detailed Explanation
Mirabilis jalapa, often called the 4 o'clock plant, earned its common name due to a specific characteristic of its flowering behavior. Here's a breakdown:
- Flowering Time: The flowers of the 4 o'clock plant don't open until late in the afternoon or early evening.
- Old-Fashioned Ornamental: This plant is a tender perennial in Zones 7-10 and is commonly grown as an annual in most parts of the United States, cherished as an old-fashioned garden ornamental belonging to the Nyctaginaceae family.
In summary, the timing of its flower opening is the primary reason behind its name.
