What is a Giant Four O’Clock
Below is a transcription of the above sign found at the Valley of Fire Visitor Center.
Giant Four O’Clock – Mirabilis froebelii
COMMUNITY
Creosote Bush Scrub to Pinyon-Juniper Woodland, Arroyo Woodland
BLOOMS
March to November
HABITAT
Open stony areas and washes
ELEVATION
1200 to 6800 ft (400 to 2200 m)
TYPE OF SOIL
Coarse sand, gravel
SOURCE OF WATER
Surface in washes and arroyos
HEIGHT
12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm)
POLLINATION
Insects, wind
ADAPTATION FOR SURVIVAL
Sweet-scented flowers open early evening and night, attracting Sphinx moth, its primary pollinator.
Flowers close during day.
COMMENTS
Perennial; flowers often grow in clumps several feet (1 to 3 m) across.