Four O'clock Plant, Colorado four o'clock

Mirabilis multiflora

Physical Characteristics

Mirabilis multiflora is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Texas to Colorado and Utah.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

The dried root can be ground into a powder, mixed with cereal flours and used to make a bread[257]. This bread is eaten to reduce the appetite[257].

Medicinal Uses

Hallucinogenic Poultice Stomachic The root is used in the treatment of stomach complaints[192]. A pinch of the powdered root is said to relieve hunger[207], it can also be used after overeating to relieve the discomfort[257]. A poultice of the powdered root can be applied to swellings[257]. Large quantities of the root are said to cause intoxication[192]. The root was chewed by native North American Medicine men to induce visions whilst making a diagnosis[257].

Known Hazards

None known