Colorado Four O’Clock: A Stunning Native Wildflower for Water-Wise Gardens
If you’re looking for a drought-tolerant native plant that puts on a spectacular evening show, Colorado four o’clock (Mirabilis multiflora) might just be your new garden favorite. This remarkable perennial brings a touch of desert magic to landscapes across the American Southwest with its vibrant purple blooms that unfurl like clockwork each afternoon.
What Makes Colorado Four O’Clock Special
Colorado four o’clock is a native perennial herb that’s perfectly adapted to life in arid climates. True to its name, this plant has an enchanting habit of opening its bright magenta-purple flowers in the late afternoon, typically around 4 o’clock, creating a stunning display just as the day begins to cool. The flowers remain open through the evening and into the early morning hours, making this plant a perfect choice for gardeners who enjoy their outdoor spaces during cooler parts of the day.
This low-growing perennial typically reaches about 2 feet in height and spreads into an attractive mounded form. Its gray-green foliage provides a lovely backdrop for the vibrant blooms, and the plant maintains its moderate growth rate throughout the spring and summer growing season.
Native Range and Distribution
As a true native of the lower 48 states, Colorado four o’clock naturally occurs across seven southwestern states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. This wide distribution speaks to the plant’s adaptability and resilience in various desert and semi-arid conditions.
Perfect for Water-Wise Landscapes
Colorado four o’clock shines in drought-tolerant garden designs where its natural beauty can be fully appreciated. Here’s where this native star really excels:
- Xeriscaping: Its high drought tolerance and low water needs make it ideal for water-conserving landscapes
- Native plant gardens: Pairs beautifully with other southwestern natives
- Naturalized areas: Perfect for creating low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly spaces
- Erosion control: The spreading growth habit helps stabilize slopes and disturbed areas
Growing Conditions That Keep It Happy
One of the best things about Colorado four o’clock is how easy it is to please once you understand its preferences. This plant thrives in conditions that would stress many other perennials:
- Soil: Prefers coarse to medium-textured, well-draining soils
- pH: Adaptable to slightly acidic to alkaline conditions (pH 6.5-8.5)
- Water: Low moisture requirements once established (8-18 inches annual precipitation)
- Sun exposure: Full sun lover – shade intolerant
- Temperature: Hardy to -18°F, suitable for USDA zones 4-9
Planting and Care Made Simple
Colorado four o’clock is wonderfully low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy gardeners or those new to native plants:
Starting from seed: This plant propagates readily from seed, which is often the most economical way to establish it. Seeds can be direct-sown in fall or spring, with about 7,950 seeds per pound.
Establishment: While the plant has a moderate seedling vigor, once established it becomes quite resilient. Plan for a frost-free period of at least 130 days for best results.
Ongoing care: After the first season, Colorado four o’clock requires minimal intervention. It has low fertility requirements and actually prefers lean soils. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to problems in a plant adapted to arid conditions.
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
The evening-blooming nature of Colorado four o’clock makes it particularly valuable for night-flying pollinators. Moths, including the fascinating sphinx moths (also called hawkmoths), are primary visitors to these tubular purple flowers. Some butterflies may also visit during early morning hours when flowers are still open.
Is Colorado Four O’Clock Right for Your Garden?
Colorado four o’clock is an excellent choice if you:
- Live in the southwestern United States within its native range
- Want to reduce water usage in your landscape
- Enjoy evening garden time when the flowers are at their peak
- Appreciate low-maintenance native plants
- Want to support night-flying pollinators
However, this plant might not be the best fit if you have heavy clay soil, live in a very humid climate, or prefer plants that bloom during daytime hours.
With its stunning evening display, drought tolerance, and native heritage, Colorado four o’clock offers southwestern gardeners a perfect blend of beauty and sustainability. Once established, this charming perennial will reward you with years of reliable blooms and the satisfaction of growing a plant that truly belongs in your landscape.
