Description
Harvested from the gardens at Monticello.
In July of 1767, Thomas Jefferson observed the blooms of his Four O'Clocks: "Mirabilis just opened, very clever." In 1811 he noted planting seeds sent by André Thouin of the Parisian Jardin des Plantes in an oval flower bed at Monticello. The Four O'Clock,or Marvel of Peru, has long been cherished for the simple miracle of its flowers, which only open during low light periods such as in the late afternoon and on cloudy days. The plants bloom in a range of flower colors: red, purple, white, and yellow. Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings.
Native Distribution: Peru
Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date at 80 degrees F. Transplant to 3" pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and transplant outdoors into well-drained soil after the last frost. In cooler regions, it can be treated as a warm-weather annual, or the tubers may be dug in the fall to preserve over the winter. Approximately 12-15 seeds per packet.
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