About
Mirabilis jalapa, the marvel of Peru, is a bushy, tuberous perennial to 80 cm often grown as an annual, producing broadly ovate leaves and clusters of aromatic, trumpet-shaped flowers in white, yellow, pink, red or bicoloured, that open in the afternoon and into the evening. A colourful and rewarding plant for a sunny border or large container.
About the genus
Mirabilis are annuals or tuberous perennials with paired, ovate leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters in the leaf axils that typically open in the afternoon and evening. Grown as bedding or border plants in sunny positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toPeru trop. America
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from cold, drying winds and provide a dry mulch in winter to protect from excessive winter wet. Alternatively, grow in a container and keep outside over the summer and overwinter
PruningCut back prior to lifting tubers
PropagationPropagate by seed in early spring, germinate at 13-18°C. Propagate by division of tubers in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free