Wild Four O'clock Plant, Heartleaf four o'clock

Mirabilis nyctaginea

Physical Characteristics

Mirabilis nyctaginea 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

N. America - Wisconsin to Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Vulnerary The chewed root is used as a poultice for wounds, burns, sores, sprains etc[207, 222, 257]. A tea made from the roots is also used to treat burns, fevers and to expel worms[213, 222, 257]. A tea made from the leaves or the roots is used in the treatment of bladder ailments[222]. Caution is advised in the use of this plant internally, see notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

One report says that the plant is considered poisonous, but gives no details[222].