Marvel of Peru, also known as Four O'Clock, is an easy-to-grow heirloom annual favored for its brilliant trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom late afternoon and remain open all night, typically closing before noon the next day. These flowers boast vibrant hues of white, red, pink, and yellow, ensuring a colorful display even on cloudy days.
Marvel of Peru thrives in various conditions, including hot, windy spots, and reseeds freely, making it an excellent choice for both gardens and containers. Its fragrant blossoms attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, offering a rewarding gardening experience with new blooms each day.
Historians believe that the ancient Aztecs were the first to raise these flowers, which made their way to Europe by the early 18th century and were classified by Linnaeus in 1753.
• Scroll down for detailed growing info •
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
• DIRECTIONS •
Hardiness: Tender perennial in USDA zones 9–11, usually grown as an annual
Height: 24"–48" tall
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Blooms: Summer to frost
Attributes: Attracts Hummingbirds, Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant
• Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall and wide (60-90 cm). This plant self-seeds freely in optimum growing conditions.
• Performs best in full sun, in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Shelter from cold, drying winds and provide a dry mulch in winter to protect from excessive winter wet.
• A welcomed addition to Mediterranean gardens, cottage gardens, or containers. This sturdy plant can also be used as an annual hedge if planted close together.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Keep an eye out for aphids and slugs.
• Sow seed directly in the garden after the last frost date, or start seed indoors 6-8 weeks earlier.
• Tuberous roots may be dug in fall (like dahlias) and stored over winter in dry, cool but frost-free conditions. Cut back prior to lifting tubers.
• Propagate by seed in early spring, germinating at 55-65°F (13-18°C). Propagate by division of tubers in spring.
• Ingestion may cause severe discomfort
~ sowing ~
When to Sow Outside:
RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after average last frost.
When to Start Inside:
6 to 8 weeks before average last frost. Direct sow in early spring, planting just under the surface of the soil; place the seeds about 6 inches apart. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which should occur within 10-14 days. When the seedlings can safely be handled, thin or transplant for wider spacing.
Days to Emerge: 10-14 days
Seed Depth: ¼"
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 12"–24"
Thinning: When 2" tall, thin to 1 every 12"–24"
~ growing ~
Water seedlings occasionally until they become established. Mature plants should only need water in dry weather, since they prefer slightly dry soil and tolerate drought well. Keep weeds controlled.
Deadheading is not necessary, though occasional pruning can be helpful to growth and appearance. This plant easily reseeds itself, and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
~ harvesting ~
The blossoms do not perform well as cut flowers, and are best enjoyed outdoors.
